Fanjingshan fir is one of the earliest dwellers on Mount Fanjing in southwest China's Guizhou Province. When extreme cold wiped out most species in that area, this fir is among the few that sustained the catastrophic climate change 2.5 million years ago.

In the northern slope of Mount Fanjing, the windy and freezing environment is hostile to life, but this fir flourishes regardless. In fact, what makes its survival possible, apart from the extraordinary genes, is the moss that covers the surface of the tree's trunk and root. These two formed an inseparable interdependent relationship that enables one to protect the other.

One of moss' perceived super powers is to absorb water just the way a sponge does. This trait guarantees the fir a steady water supply. Years of accumulation of dead mosses makes up for the lack of soil and nutrient shortage in this rocky area, which helps protect the fir roots and subsequently empowers the tree to withstand the frequent strong wind.

In return, the tall tree and dense leaves provide quality shade area for the moss to thrive, keeping it away from the scorching sun. 

Fanjingshan fir is under first class national protection in China because of its rarity. Many attempts of artificial cultivation failed, and the failure has been attributed to the absence of the moss and the environment they have been growing in, even though the condition is too harsh for many other species to bear. 

From the wetlands along the coast to the dense rainforests hidden in southwestern China, all boast an array of plant species. In this series, we will go on a tour to learn about some of the most representative flora in different provinces and see how they live in harmony with the local geography and climate.

(Cover image designed by CGTN. )

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