Oloolua Nature Trail #2: Bamboo Grove
This is the 2nd in a series of caches hidden along this fine hidden gem of a forest trail.
See GC44KCB Oloolua Nature Trail #1: The Waterfall for an introduction to the trail, how to get there, trail map and information on opening times and fees.
. . . Rickety stairs lead down to giant riverside bamboo stands with benches for rest and reflecton whilst listening to the sounds of trickling water and chirping birds . . .
Bamboo: Some Facts . . .
Bamboo is a fascinating plant with about 1,450 different species. 
It is a type of grass and one of the fastest growing plants in the world with growth rates up to 100cm in 24 hours reported! They are found in diverse climates, from cold mountains to hot tropical regions, however continental Europe does not have any native species. The largest species can reach over 30m high and 20cm in diameter. In contrast the smallest reach only a few inches high at maturity. Unlike trees, individual bamboo stems (culms) emerge from the ground at their full diameter and grow to their full height in a single growing season of 3-4 months. Most bamboo species flower infrequently and many only flower at intervals as long as 65-120 years! They exhibit mass flowering (or gregarious flowering), with all plants in a particular species flowering worldwide over a several-year period. Some sort of “alarm clock” in each cell of the plant signals the diversion of all energy to flower production and the cessation of vegetative growth. This mechanism, as well as the evolutionary cause behind it, is still largely a mystery.
It is a very versatile plant with many uses including food for animals and humans (bamboo shoots), construction (high strength to weight ratio), scaffolding, paper, textiles (bedding, towels and clothing), 
musical instruments, kitchen utensils, furniture, and weapons. Amazingly it has also been used for making computer keyboards & mice, watches, flash drives, and iPhone cases! See here for more information on this wonderful plant.
The cache, a small blac-taped plastic pot, is hidden behind a small log and some leaves in an obvious hole under the rock face beside the top of the steps.
***Please take care retrieving and replacing the cache as the area is popular with muggles, especially at weekends. Kindly replace the cache properly concealed as found and cover your foot marks with the available leaves - thanks!***
Permission to place the cache was kindly given by the Institute of Primate Research and the guides at the gate know about it.