Flora

Hong Kong is near the northern limit of the distribution of tropical Asian
flora and has an estimated 2 800 species of vascular plants, both native
and introduced. Various conservation measures have transformed the
formerly bare hillsides and slopes into areas with plants of local and
introduced species. Besides greening and beautifying the countryside,
woodlands are important habitats for wildlife and are essential in
protecting water catchments from soil erosion and in providing
recreational opportunities for the public.

Remnants of the original forest cover, either scrub forest or
well-developed woodlands, are still found in steep ravines. They have
survived the destructive influences of man through their location in
precipitous topography and the moist winter micro-climate.

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