''Cynomorium'' is a genus of parasitic perennial flowering plants in the family Cynomoriaceae. The genus consists of only one species, ''Cynomorium coccineum''.
Similar species: Saxifragales
By Ori Fragman Sapir
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Uploaded Apr 7, 2019. Captured Apr 6, 2019 11:23 in Aqaba Qasabah District, Jordan.
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Cynomorium coccineum is a fascinating, rare plant that is the only species in its genus. Thanks to its appearance, common names include Maltese mushroom, red thumb, and desert thumb. Cynomorium coccineum is a parasitic plant that doesn’t contain any chlorophyll and thus can’t photosynthesize. It grows in dry, sandy soils and spends most of its life as an underground rhizome, which attaches to the roots of host plants. It is completely dependent on its host for nutrition. The small, red flowers emerge in the spring and form a dense, club-shaped mass on an unbranched stem that is about 15-30 cm tall (6-12 in). The flowers can be male, female, or hermaphrodite and are pollinated by flies that adore the plant’s sweet, cabbage-like scent.
Cynomorium coccineum has historical value in many different cultures and was often sent to monarchs as gifts. It was highly regarded by the Knights of Malta in 16th century Europe. It was so favored that guards were posted to protect the areas where the plant grew from would-be marauders. Herbalists used the plant to treat blood disorders and restore energy. It was also assumed, due to the phallic shape of the inflorescence, that the plant was good to treat sexual problems, such as impotence. Other uses included treatment of ulcers and digestive complaints. Lastly, Cynomorium is considered a “famine food”, which is not frequently eaten, but can help people survive in times when regular food sources are scarce. {Spotted in Jordan by JungleDragon moderator, Ori Fragman-Sapir} #JungleDragon
Posted 6 years ago
Spring is in the air in the Northern Hemisphere, so we decided to sprinkle some color on Facebook this week by sharing photos of wildflowers! Flowering plants are the largest and most diverse group of plants, accounting for up to 90% of plant species!
They are often exquisitely beautiful, can be fantastically weird, and may exude pleasant or nasty fragrances. They are an important source of food for an innumerable amount of creatures, including humans. Flowering plants are also a source of medicines, fibers, timber, ornamentals, and so many other commercial products. Flowers truly make our world a better place! #JungleDragon #Wildflowers #Floweringplants #Angiosperms
Want to see more wild, weird, and fabulous flowering plants? Click here:
https://www.jungledragon.com/.../photos/plantae/angiosperms
https://www.facebook.com/jungledragonwildlife Posted 4 years ago