Ecuador in seven days from Quito
Discover Ecuador through unique experiences that combine culture, nature, adventure, and wellness.
In Baños de Agua Santa, analyzes of Rapid Ecological Assessments (REAs) were conducted by Ecociencia and the Management Plan of the Ecominga Reserves in 2010 to explore the diversity of flora. The results revealed the presence of 278 species of wild plants distributed across 70 families. The most prominent family was Orchidaceae, which featured 70 orchid species, including 10 newly discovered and endemic ones for the region, primarily belonging to the genus Lepanthes.
Additionally, five other species were identified from the families Campanulaceae, Dyropteridaceae, Gesneriaceae, Melastomataceae, and Polypodiaceae, discovered by the American botanist Lou Jost.
As a result, the area showcases astonishing diversity, encompassing emblematic species such as the aguacolla, representing the province's floral identity, alongside the imposing presence of quishuar and molles, among other varieties. However, the singularly captivating presence of orchids stands out, adding a unique charm to the vegetation. Furthermore, common plant species like pumamaqui, cattail, pajonales, frailejón, and heliconias can be observed, contributing to the richness and beauty of the botanical environment. All of this flora can be observed while visiting each tourist attraction in the area.
