Despite the hot dry climate, 2075 species of plants in 758 genera are found in Egypt. Many of these are uniquely adapted to the climatic conditions. While some plants grow in "privileged" areas such as the Nile Valley, others have developed strategies for conserving water. Fleshy leaves are one such adaptation, some plants have a waxy coating on the leaves that reduces water loss, and many desert plants have long taproots that reach down to the water table.
Most species have the ability to sprout, flower and set seed in a very short space of time when there is a little rain. The seeds can then lie in the sand, sometimes for years, until there is another rain and the cycle can begin again. The mist oasis of Gebel Elba sustains numerous plants including the dramatic Ombet Tree.
The Sinai Peninsula has the greatest diversity of species, including 19 that are endemic to Egypt; many of the plants are of medicinal importance.
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Giant
Milkweed, Calotropis procera |
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| This is a widespread
plant, especially common on the banks of
the Nile in Upper Egypt. Its presence indicates
that the land is disturbed. Like all members
of the family Asclepiadaceae, it is very
poisonous; insects, such as the grasshopper
Poikilocerus bufonius, that have
fed on it often use the plant poisons for
their own defense. |
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