Hello, this is Interpreter Takezawa!
In our previous post, we learned about Mount Fuji’s vegetation and vertical distribution. Today, let’s dive into the plants themselves—focusing on species commonly seen on Mount Fuji, especially those easy to spot and recognize.
Why Fuji’s Flora is Unique
Mount Fuji, formed by volcanic activity around 10,000 years ago, is relatively young. Its frequent eruptions and isolated peak shape its ecosystem. Unlike the Japanese Alps, Fuji has fewer alpine plants due to its volcanic history and lack of neighboring peaks for seed dispersal.
Iconic Trees of Mount Fuji
1. Japanese Larch (karamatu)
-
Habitat: Subalpine to alpine zones (1,600–2,500m).
-
Features: The only deciduous conifer in Japan. Its needles turn golden in autumn, painting Fuji’s slopes in vibrant hues. Near the tree line (~2,500m), harsh winds and snow stunt their growth, creating bonsai-like shapes.
2. Dakekanba ( Japanese Mountain Birch)
-
Habitat: Avalanche-prone slopes in subalpine zones.
-
Features: Recognizable by its peeling, papery bark (historically used as makeshift “letters” by mountain dwellers). Its yellow autumn leaves complement the larch’s gold.
3. Japanese Rowan (nanakamado)
-
Habitat: Subalpine trails near Fifth Stations.
-
Features: Bright red autumn leaves stand out against golden larch and birch. Despite its name (“seven-times furnace”), it burns well!
Shrubs and Ground Plants
1. Miyama Alder (miyamahannoki)
-
Habitat: Rocky slopes near volcanic gravel.
-
Features: A hardy shrub that thrives in Fuji’s harsh alpine environment.
2. Hakusan Rhododendron (hakusanshakunage)
-
Habitat: Shaded forest floors.
-
Features: Large, banana-like leaves and striking pink-white summer blooms.
3. Cowberry (kokemomo)
-
Habitat: Low-growing in subalpine zones.
-
Features: Produces tart red berries (used in jams and wines). Note: Picking plants on Fuji is strictly prohibited!
Pioneer Plants: Fuji’s Green Architects
Above the tree line (~2,500m), volcanic scoria dominates. Here, hardy pioneer plants like knotweed (ontade) and Japanese dock (itadori) take root. These species stabilize loose soil, paving the way for other plants to grow.
Flowers with “Fuji” in Their Name
1. Fuji Thistle (fujiazami)
-
Habitat: Volcanic gravel fields.
-
Features: Large purple blooms (up to 10cm wide) in late summer. Spiky but loved by deer, which often snack on its stems.
2. Fuji Cherry (fujizakura / mamezakura)
-
Habitat: Sunny slopes near Fifth Stations.
-
Features: Small, downward-facing pink blossoms. The official flower of Yamanashi Prefecture.
Where to Spot These Plants
Fuji’s Fifth Stations (starting points for climbers) are ideal for plant observation:
-
Fujinomiya Fifth Station (2,400m): Larch and rowan dominate.
-
Subaru Line Fifth Station (2,300m): Look for Dakekanba birch forests.
-
Gotemba New Fifth Station (1,450m): Lower-altitude species like maple and beech.
Final Thoughts
Mount Fuji hosts hundreds of plant species, each adapted to its unique volcanic landscape. From golden larch forests to resilient pioneer plants, Fuji’s flora tells a story of survival and beauty. While this post highlights key species, there’s always more to discover on the mountain’s slopes.
Join me next time as we continue exploring Fuji’s natural wonders! 🌿🗻
Note: Plant names include Japanese terms in parentheses for reference. Always respect nature—observe plants without disturbing them!
