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Description
Baeometra Uniflora, also known as one-flowered cancer-root or ghost pipe, is a unique flowering plant found in the woodlands of North America. It belongs to the family Orobanchaceae and is a parasitic plant that lacks chlorophyll. As a result, it does not produce its food and relies on other plants to survive. The plant grows to a height of 10-30 cm and produces a single white flower that blooms from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Baeometra |
Appearance
The one-flowered cancer-root plant lacks leaves and stems. It has a white, waxy stem that emerges from the ground and terminates in a single white flower. The plant’s stem is covered in small scales and can grow up to 30 cm tall. The flower of the Baeometra Uniflora is unique in shape and resembles a small, inverted umbrella. The petals are white and have a waxy texture that reflects light, giving the plant a ghostly appearance.
Care Guide
The Baeometra Uniflora plant requires minimal care as it is a parasitic plant that relies on other plants for nutrients. However, it can be grown in a garden with the following care guidelines:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: As a parasitic plant, the Baeometra Uniflora does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant grows best in rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The one-flowered cancer-root plant prefers shady areas and should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Baeometra Uniflora plant is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
The one-flowered cancer-root plant is native to the woodlands of North America, including Canada and the United States. It is commonly found in moist, shady areas and grows well in a variety of soils. The plant is also found in deciduous forests and woodland edges.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is the Baeometra Uniflora plant poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous and is safe for humans and animals to touch and handle. - Q: How can I propagate Baeometra Uniflora plant?
A: The plant can be propagated by division or by planting the seeds in a shady area with rich, loamy soil. - Q: How long does the Baeometra Uniflora flower last?
A: The flower of the one-flowered cancer-root plant blooms from June to August and lasts for a few weeks. - Q: Can the Baeometra Uniflora plant be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires a parasitic relationship with other plants to survive and cannot be grown indoors.
Related Plants
- Epifagus virginiana (beech drops)
- Aphyllon uniflorum (one-flowered cancer-root)
- Conopholis americana (American cancer-root)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Baeometra Uniflora (L.) Nutt. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BAUN
- Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). One-flowered cancer-root. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/plant/one-flowered-cancer-root
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Baeometra Uniflora. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279290&isprofile=0&
- Gardenia.net. (n.d.). Baeometra Uniflora (One-Flowered Cancer Root). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/baeometra-uniflora
