At Babanango Valley, the vegetation comprises savanna (approximately 80%) and mountain grassland (approximately 20%). The savanna is essentially Lowveld Sour Bushveld (because of the granite base rock) but towards the iSundu area it starts verging on more typical Lowveld. The grassland areas are Southern Tall Grassveld.

The distribution of species is often closely linked with soil types. Indeed, we as Grassland Scientist often use species as "indicators" of specific conditions that prevail at a particular location, for example, soil depth, soil texture or waterlogged soil. In addition, species often provide valuable insight into past management practices such as stocking rate, frequency an intensity of fires and grazing management. By reading the story plants tell we know a tremendous amount about the area - and importantly what to do to achieve a particular objective.

Trees

The diversity of trees in the 4 000 hectares of Babanango Valley, 142 indigenous species, is quite remarkable. In addition, there are 4 exotic species. However, every effort is being made to eradicate the exotic species or at least keep them under control. Seeding from adjacent areas will be the biggest factor mitigating against complete eradication.

The largest tree in the Nature Reserve is a magnificent specimen of Ficus salicifolia (Wonderboom). Its branches touch the ground. When it is in fruit, it becomes a hive of activity with the hum of insects and exciting chatter of a great number of insects and fruit-eating birds. An interesting link regarding the trees fo the area can be found here: Tree Species - Trees of Southern Africa

Grasses

The grasses must surely be the most forgotten family. Grass is everywhere and we depend on them for food (maize, wheat, sugar cane sorghum), recreation (cricket pitches, rugby and soccer fields, golfing greens), building material (thatch) and lawns (parks and gardens). They form the bulk of food for wild animals, big and small. A close look at grasses will reveal amazing beauty. The list of 75 recorded species (69 indigenous and 6 exotic species recorded) is far from complete. An interesting link regarding the grasses of the area can be accessed here: Grass Species - Grasses of Southern Africa

Wildflowers

Although an abundance of wildflowers, other than trees and grasses, occurs, a comprehensive list is a long way from being compiled. Partly due to the difficulties in identifying the species, particularly in the absence of a comprehensive illustrated guide. A start has been made to developing a herbarium concentrating on wildflowers other than trees and grasses. About 60 specimens have already been pressed and identified by the herbarium in Durban.