Balanophora (Balanophoraceae)

Balanophora

Balanophora is a unique family of plants notable for their parasitic lifestyle, lacking chlorophyll and deriving nutrients from other plants' roots. They exhibit vibrant, often large, and fleshy flower structures, which rise above ground to deploy seeds, contrasting starkly with their hidden, absorptive subterranean parts. This adaptation allows balanophora to thrive in nutrient-poor environments by exploiting host plant resources.

Scientific classification

Family

Balanophora (Balanophoraceae)

Order

Sandalwoods, mistletoes and allies

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