Kaas Flowers

November 02, 2013

Kaas Flowers

Kaas’s spectacular floral display has earned this place the prestige of a heritage site. It was also recognised by UNESCO as a bio diversity hot spot in June 2012.

Situated on the crest of north Western Ghats, Kaas plateau is made up of extremely porous laterite rock (Jambha) and a thin layer of soil. As the soil cannot retain water around the year, the plants can sustain life only during heavy rain. Interestingly, the flora of Kaas is restricted to this particular location, as the plateau is largely formed of basalt, which is directly exposed to the atmosphere.

Well known for its hillocks covered with wild flowers, Kaas offers an awe inspiring view of millions of colourful petals. According to Bombay Natural Housing Society (BNHS), this 1850 hectare plateau is home to 1500 species of flowering plants including 33 endangered species. As many as 39 species are found exclusively in Kaas region.

Ceropegia media

An interesting feature of Ceropegias is that the flower tube is lined with small hairs that point downward to form a temporary trap for small flies. When the flies are attracted to the flower by the odour, they are prevented from escaping until the hairs wither, the pollinia from the flower being attached to the flies body when they escape.