Phantom Orchid Bonsai
NamePhantom Orchid Bonsai
Species NameCephalanthera austiniae
Common NamePhantom Orchid
Bonsai Styleinformal-upright
Estimated Age (years)10
Container Typeceramic pot
Geographic Originnorth-america
Cultivation Difficultyexpert
Trunk Featuresslender, white bark
Foliage Typeleafless
Height (cm)25
Nebari (Root Flare) Qualitynot visible
Is Floweringtrue
Notable FeaturesThe Phantom Orchid is a mycoheterotrophic plant, meaning it lacks chlorophyll and obtains nutrients from fungi, making its cultivation, especially as a bonsai, exceptionally difficult and rarely achieved. Its pure white appearance is due to the absence of chlorophyll.
Description
This unique specimen, presented as a hypothetical bonsai, features the rare Phantom Orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae) with its striking pure white, leafless stalk adorned with delicate flowers. It represents an extreme challenge in cultivation due to its mycoheterotrophic nature.
