Found in the deep shade of a Madagascar forest, this unflattering flower actually has a musk rose-like scent that becomes stronger when it's warmer outside.
And while all orchids are parasitic, this one depends entirely on fungi for nutrients as it lacks true leaves or other photosynthetic tissue.
Scientists at England's Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, recently dubbed it “the ugliest orchid in the world" noting its “small, brown, and rather ugly" flowers.
Via Curtis's Botanical Magazine, The Kew Royal Botanical Gardens, & Atlas Obscura.
Photo Credit: The flower of Gastrodia agnicellus, showing the stem and part of the rhizome. Ranomafana September 2019. Photograph: Rick Burian.
nasty
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Despite common sense, orchids are not parasites - roots wrapped in logs naturally give us that impression. Most of them use tree trunks to attach themselves or look for decomposing material in the soil. Some orchids ask for a little less: a small space between two stones is enough to fix their roots and wait for nutrients carried by the wind, rain or insects. Colors, shapes, smells and tricks to attract pollinators are amazing! Even if it looks like a Sci-Fi allien...
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It's when it starts yelling "Feed me!" that you have to be concerned.
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