A new underground-growing plant — the "Devil's Flower" — has been discovered in Thailand

A new underground-growing plant — the "Devil's Flower" — has been discovered in Thailand

Scientists in Thailand have identified a new plant species that has no leaves and possesses a unique structure. Due to its appearance, it was named Thismia daemona, which conditionally translates to "devil's flower." This was reported by the "Layfxaker" publication.

This plant belongs to the genus Thismia. Currently, fewer than 50 species of this genus, which are mainly found in tropical forests, are known to science. These plants do not undergo photosynthesis, have no leaves, and spend most of their lives underground or under fallen leaves. They obtain the necessary nutrients through underground fungi.

The newly discovered plant species fits this group perfectly. Its appearance consists of a dark black flower with horn-like appendages, topped with reddish-orange spots.

The plant was found at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. This is an unusual environment for them, as such species typically grow in permanently wet lowlands. This discovery has expanded scientists' understanding of this plant species, as it was recorded for the first time in a northern region unexpected for the group.

Currently, there are concerns regarding the survival of the Thismia daemona species. Scientists have identified only one population of it. It consists of fewer than 50 plants in an area smaller than a football field. For this reason, it may be included in the list of endangered plants. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the location where the plant was discovered is within a national park area where many tourists walk.