The giant groundsels of Kilimanjaro grow at about 3,500-4,000 metres in the moorland. Their leaves wrap around the stem to keep it insulated at night. They are a highlight of the Machame and Lemosho routes.
Alpine plants
Found only in Tanzania
Giant Groundsel
Dendrosenecio kilimanjari
A strange, cabbage-headed tree found only on the high slopes of Kilimanjaro.
Size
Up to 6 m tall
Lifespan
100+ years
Diet
Not applicable.
Habitat
High-altitude moorland.
About the giant groundsel
Did you know?
01
It is found only on Kilimanjaro.
02
Dead leaves form a coat that protects the trunk.
03
It grows very slowly.
When to see it
Gold months are usually the easiest time to find it.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Where to see it in Tanzania
Trips that go there
Where to meet the giant groundsel
More wildlife to discover
Endemic
NE
Alpine plants
Giant Lobelia
Lobelia deckenii
A tall, spiky flowering plant of the high mountain moorland.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru
Trees
African Baobab
Adansonia digitata
The upside-down tree, and the skyline of Tarangire.
Tarangire, Lake Eyasi +2 more
Trees
Umbrella Thorn Acacia
Vachellia tortilis
The flat-topped tree that defines the African savannah.
Serengeti, Tarangire +3 more
Primates
Blue Monkey
Cercopithecus mitis
A dark, forest-dwelling monkey that eats fruit high in the canopy.
Arusha, Lake Manyara +4 more
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