Rhizanthes lowii
Rhizanthes lowii (Becc.) Harms
Rhizanthes lowii is a parasitic flowering plant in the Rafflesiaceae family, known for its lack of leaves, stems, roots, or photosynthetic tissue. It grows on the roots of the Tetrastigma vine and produces the largest flowers in the Rhizanthes genus, measuring 25 to 43 cm in diameter. These flowers are endothermic, capable of generating and regulating their own heat.
Description
Rhizanthes lowii (Becc.) Harms is a member of the Rafflesiaceae family, found in Borneo, Malaya, and Sumatera. As a parasitic plant, it lacks typical plant structures like leaves, stems, and roots. Instead, it attaches to the roots of Tetrastigma vines. The species is notable for its large flowers, which can reach up to 43 cm in diameter. These flowers are endothermic, meaning they produce their own heat and can regulate their temperature, a rare trait in the plant kingdom. The species was first described in 1934.
Distribution
Borneo · Malaya · Sumatera
Synonyms
Mycetanthe lowiiBrugmansia lowii
