Contents
Description
Allotropa is a fascinating and unique plant that belongs to the Monotropaceae family. This plant has no chlorophyll, which means it does not produce its food through photosynthesis. Instead, it obtains its nutrients from fungi that live in the soil. Allotropa is commonly known as ‘Candy Cane plant’ due to its distinctive red and white striped appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Monotropaceae |
| Genus | Allotropa |
Appearance
Allotropa grows up to 20 cm tall and has a stem that is white or pinkish in color. The leaves are scale-like and clasping the stem. The flowers are bell-shaped, and the petals are fused together to form a tube. They are white or pinkish-white in color with red stripes. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Water
Allotropa prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy.
Fertilization
As Allotropa gets its nutrients from fungi, it does not require any fertilization.
Soil
Allotropa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic.
Sunlight
Allotropa prefers to grow in shaded areas, and direct sunlight should be avoided.
Hardiness Zones
Allotropa grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Allotropa is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it may be attacked by slugs and snails. To prevent this, use slug and snail baits.
Habitat
Allotropa is native to North America and is found in the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, and northeastern regions. It grows in coniferous forests, mixed forests, and chaparral habitats.
Question and Answer
Q. What is the significance of the red and white stripes on the Allotropa plant?
A. The red and white stripes on the Allotropa plant are believed to mimic the appearance of the candy cane, which may attract pollinators.
Q. What is the role of fungi in the Allotropa plant?
A. The Allotropa plant obtains its nutrients from fungi that live in the soil. The fungi form a symbiotic relationship with the plant and provide it with essential nutrients.
Q. What type of soil does Allotropa prefer?
A. Allotropa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic.
Q. What is the ideal growing location for Allotropa?
A. Allotropa prefers to grow in shaded areas, and direct sunlight should be avoided.
Related Plants
– Monotropa uniflora (Ghost Plant)- Hypopitys monotropa (Pinesap)- Sarcodes sanguinea (Snow Plant)
References
– “Allotropa.” Encyclopedia of Life, eol.org/pages/2926625/details.- “Allotropa.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286745.- “Allotropa.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, plants.jstor.org/taxon/allotropa.
