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TIL: Plants

Ceropegia Sandersonii: The Parachute Flower

N/A • 14 februari 2024

Ceropegia Sandersonii, commonly known as the Parachute Flower or Umbrella Flower, is an intriguing species characterized by its uniquely shaped flowers resembling parachutes or umbrellas. Its Latin name came after author and naturalist, John Sanderson, who described the plant in 1825. This intriguing plant, belonging to the Apocynaceae family, is native to eSwatini, Mozambique, and South Africa. It primarily inhabits bushvelds and coastal forests in these regions. However, as it is a popular cultivar, it can be found worldwide in the homes of passionate horticulturists. At first glance, the Parachute Flower is an eyecatcher with its five-pointed parachute-like structure. Each flower distinctively displays a base shade of green with patches of yellow and purple-brown patterns towards the edges. These intricate markings serve a purpose, acting as an attractive trap for its prey, primarily carrion flies, a mimicry of rotting flesh by its smell and visual appearance. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Parachute Flower is its predatory trapping mechanism. Unlike other carnivorous plants that engulf their prey physically, this plant uses deceit. It emits a scent similar to honey or rotting meat, attracting flies in search of food. Once the insect lands on the flower, it slips down into a small chamber, where it becomes trapped due to the flower's hair-like projections pointing downwards. The trapped insect then pollinates the flower as it attempts to escape. Once pollination is complete, the plant lets it go, only to trick another unsuspecting pollinator. A succulent with heart-shaped leaves, the Parachute Flower can reach a height of 0.5-3 meters. It's considered a robust plant species, with the ability to endure various light and humidity conditions, perfect for indoor cultivation. It's indeed a fascinating plant to study, considering its deceptive tactics and unique visual appearance.

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