Snowplant
NameSnowplant
Species NameSarcodes sanguinea
Common NameSnowplant
Bonsai Styleinformal-upright
Estimated Age (years)1
Container Typenone
Geographic Originnorth-america
Cultivation Difficultyexpert
Trunk Featuresnon-woody stem, fleshy
Foliage Typescale-like bracts
Height (cm)20
Nebari (Root Flare) Qualitynot applicable
Is Floweringtrue
Is Fruitingtrue
Notable FeaturesVibrant red coloration; parasitic nature; emerges after snowmelt; lacks true leaves and chlorophyll.
Description
A striking cluster of bright red, fleshy stalks emerging from the forest floor. This parasitic plant lacks chlorophyll and obtains nutrients from mycorrhizal fungi associated with conifer roots, making it impossible to cultivate as a traditional bonsai.
