Detail of the center of the lobelia cactus as it opens its blooms early in the alpine morning, high on Kilimanjaro's flanks.

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An endemic species of Kilimanjaro, the lobelia deckenii exists under two forms: the first one rather phallic, the other one like a cauliflower. They are often seen in humid and sheltered areas like Barranco camp. It takes 8 years to blossom. During this period, the beautiful blue flowers are hidden by thick leaves aiming at protecting them against the cold conditions. These young buds fold closed at night and open early in the morning, with the warming sun.

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Size: 6000px × 4800px
Location: Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Photo credit: © DeepEarth Photography / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

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