Uganda has a wide variety of plant life.
Most of us are aware of the diverse wildlife found in Africa whether it be from documentaries or perhaps movies we have seen. However, not only does Africa have diverse animal inhabitants, but also a wide variety of interesting plant life, or flora. Uganda for example, located in the African rift valley, not only has flora found in east and west Africa but also species that are know only to that area. Does this Spark an idea?
Elephant Grass
Elephant grass is used by Uganda farmers as livestock feed.
Pennistum purpureum, more commonly known as elephant grass, is a plant found in Uganda growing along the banks of lakes and rivers. This species grows in thick clumps, with the stalks reaching heights of up to 10 feet. The leaves of this plant, which are gathered by local farm workers, are used as animal feed for the livestock. Because of the growth denseness of this plant and its characteristically razor sharp leaves, this grass makes an excellent habitat for some of the indigenous bird species found in Uganda. In 1913, elephant grass was brought to the U.S. and over time was introduced to the state of Florida. Because of the invasive nature of this plant, however, the waterways in this state must periodically be cleared of its infestation.
Mvule Trees
Mvule trees grow to 50 feet before producing the first limb.
Mvule trees, which are indigenous to Uganda, are well-known for its outstanding use as a hardwood for construction and for the uses in a variety of carpentry applications. The tree will grow up to 50 feet before developing the first limb, which makes it highly prized in the timber industry. It is also known for its width, being some of the first trees harvested in Uganda that rendered wood boards of up to 6 feet wide. Because of its slow growth rate, since first being discovered by the Europeans sometime in the 1880s, this tree has been overharvested to the point that it is nearing extinction.
Umbrella Thorn Acacia Tree
The umbrella thorn acacia tree is well adapted to the African environment.
Seen in great numbers on the Ugandan African savanna is the umbrella thorn acacia tree. Being able to survive in temperatures ranging from 122 degrees Fahrenheit during daytime hours and freezing temperatures at night makes this tree a hearty, abundant species in the African environment. Due to its unusually long taproot, this plant can survive on an annual rainfall amount of 1 1/2 inches and flourishes in sand dunes and rocky environments. The top of the Acacia tree resembles the shape of an umbrella and contains small thorns to keep animals from eating the leaves. This allows for the indigenous wildlife to enjoy the shade benefits offered by the tree's canopy.
Tags: this plant, African environment, elephant grass, feet before, first limb