Dactylanthus
Contents
Description
Dactylanthus taylorii, commonly known as the wood rose or the pua o te reinga, is a unique and rare flower that is native to New Zealand. This fascinating plant is known for its unusual appearance, as it grows entirely underground and relies on a parasitic relationship with fungi for survival. The plant is also considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and over-harvesting.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Balanophoraceae |
| Genus | Dactylanthus |
Appearance
Despite growing completely underground, Dactylanthus is a striking plant with unique features. Its fleshy, tuberous root system can grow up to 30cm in diameter and weigh up to 10kg. From the root system, a single stem emerges, which can grow up to 30cm in height and produce small, reddish-brown flowers that are shaped like a rose. The flowers are surrounded by a rosette of fleshy bracts, giving them the appearance of a flower bud.
Care Guide
Dactylanthus is a challenging plant to grow, as it relies on a parasitic relationship with fungi for survival. As such, it is not recommended for cultivation outside of its natural habitat. However, if you are lucky enough to have one in your care, here are some tips: – Water: Dactylanthus should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. – Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, as Dactylanthus obtains its nutrients from the fungi it parasitizes. – Soil: Dactylanthus grows in native New Zealand forest soil, which is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: As an underground plant, Dactylanthus does not require direct sunlight. – Hardiness Zones: Dactylanthus is only found in the North Island of New Zealand and is adapted to the local climate.
Common Pests & Diseases
As Dactylanthus is an underground plant, it is not commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, it is considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and over-harvesting.
Habitat
Dactylanthus is found exclusively in the North Island of New Zealand, where it grows in native forests. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and moist, with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. The plant is typically found growing on the roots of native trees such as pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) and puriri (Vitex lucens).
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dactylanthus a flowering plant?
A: Yes, Dactylanthus produces small, reddish-brown flowers that are shaped like a rose.
Q: Can Dactylanthus be grown outside of New Zealand?
A: Dactylanthus is not recommended for cultivation outside of its natural habitat, as it relies on a parasitic relationship with fungi for survival.
Q: Why is Dactylanthus considered an endangered species?
A: Dactylanthus is considered an endangered species due to habitat loss and over-harvesting.
Q: How does Dactylanthus obtain its nutrients?
A: Dactylanthus obtains its nutrients from the fungi it parasitizes.
Related Plants
– Balanophora fungosa- Langsdorffia hypogaea- Pilostyles thurberi
References
– “Dactylanthus taylorii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/dactylanthus-taylorii/- “Dactylanthus taylorii.” Department of Conservation. https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-plants/dactylanthus/- “Dactylanthus taylorii.” Te Papa. https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/139015.
