Some ore-bearing rocks (like dolostone, often containing iron and copper) are more weathering resistant than others and so form steep cliffs or prominent peaks. Normally geologists don´t like plants, as the vegetation tends to cover rocks and soils and makes it difficult to accurate map the geological underground. However some species or associations of plants grow only if specific geological conditions are meet. For example an alpine fissure, famous for the crystals hidden inside, often reveal itself on the rocky surface by plants or patches of vegetation growing there. Metallophytes or indicator plants for metals are a specific association of plants, adapted to high concentrations of metals in the underground.

Source: Forbes November 25, 2016 20:00 UTC