PLANTS

As many as 224 plant species, including more than 110 woody plant species, have been recorded in Kafa, out of which around 20 are listed as endemic. Broadleaf trees dominate the scenery, while the moist and temperate climate makes an excellent habitat for vegetation. Plants here exhibit a fascinating variety of crowns, uses, and colourful seeds and flowers.

The Aningeria tree rises above the canopy as the tallest tree in the region. Sizeable Wild Poplars develop spirally arranged leaves and small green fruits. The Parasol Tree grows straight, vertical branches, reach-ing to the top of the canopy. A popular houseplant, called the Corn Plant, has colourful green and yellow leaves with pink flowers. Striking red and white seeds appear on the Maytenus tree. Characteristic in Kafa, Jumping Seed trees bear long yellow flowers which have no petals but look more like spikes. Palm trees, succulent cactus, and tree ferns also define the variegation of plants.

Many of the plants in Kafa also have interesting uses. Ethiopians traditionally use seeds from Birbira trees to poison fish. The White Stinkwood tree produces fleshy sweet and edible fruits. The Senegal Date Palm has edible fruits used to make wine, and seeds which can act as a substitute for coffee. Some Olea, or olive, species grow in the Afromontane and make favourable timber products. Kafa hosts four different species of Fig trees of which two have tempting edible fruits. An aromatic herb known as False Carda-mom is an endemic spice. Forest Mahogany trees have an impressive list of uses including edible seeds and wood suitable for carving. The Apricot Vine climbs and wraps around trees and offers an edible green fruit.

For more information on plants in Kafa please refer to:

Nune, S. (2008). Flora Biodiversity Assessment in Bonga, Boginda and Mankira Forest, Kafa, Ethiopia. For the full Floral Diversity Report, please refer to the Download section.

Matheis, M. (2012). The Potential of Wild and Traditionally Used Plants to Contribute to Food Security. University of Sustainable Development Eberswalde.

Teketay, D. (2010). Edible Wild Plants in Ethiopia. Addis Ababa University Press.

Bekele, E. (2007). Study on Actual Situation of Medicinal Plants in Ethiopia. Prepared for JAICAF.

Tadesse, M., (1991). Some Endemic Plants of Ethiopia. Ethiopian Tourism Commission.

Edwards, S., (1976). Some Wild Flowering Plants of Ethiopia. Addis Ababa University Press.