Plants are the key to a better and greener tomorrow!
Did you know there are a total of 391,000 different species of plants in our world, including the ones that were discovered just recently. And yet, there are probably many more species that are yet to be discovered from the different corners of the world. With our modern day scientists ascending to the highest peaks of mountains and valleys with the sole motive of searching new plant species, it is almost possible that all species of plants are noted, researched and analysed. But, Mother Nature plays her own tricks to cause evolution or the birth of newer plant species that are stronger than the other family species. Scientists from the reputed Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew London recently discovered more unique plant species, some of which are mentioned here below.
Ipomoea inaccessa (Bolivian Flower)
Thriving in the harshest environmental conditions, this beautiful plant is a proof that the most beautiful things bloom under the most severe conditions. The plant is vine that grows only on the ultra- precipitous slopes of the great Andes Mountain. The flower can only be collected from the fallen trees.
Paphiopedilum papilio laoticus (Ostentatious orchid)
Just perfect to be showcased at the Chelsea Flower Show, the Paphiopedilum papilio laoticus is a unique floral diamond that was found growing in the back of a handcart in the city of Vientiane (Laos). The beautiful slipper orchid is very rare and endangered for its one-of-a-kind beauty.
Lebbiea grandiflora (Botanical Herb)
One of the most outlandish discoveries made, the Lebbiea grandiflora remains to be a mystery. The pillar-like herb was found at two West African waterfalls, namely Guinea and Sierra Leone. Small samples of the herb were collected and studied through 2019. This botanical herb which was just discovered in 2018 has already been classified as an endangered species. The herb growing on the waterfalls may not have a long life time.
Hydnum melitosarx (Hedgehog Mushroom)
A unique and a newly discovered species of mushroom, the Hydnum melitosarx is believed to be as tasty as interesting as it looks. The hedgehog mushroom grows in the beautiful woodlands of North America and Europe. The mushroom was named after the spore bearing teeth. These mushrooms are very much edible and if you are lucky, you might soon taste them at the closest pizza joint.
Ipomoea prolifera (Another Bolivian Beauty)
Bright purple in color, these large and beautiful flowering plants are widely found on the Bolivian Andes mountain. However, they bloom only after heavy rainfall and hence are not easily discovered on the Andes.
Nepenthes biak (Insect Eating Plant)
Have you ever heard of a carnivorous plant that eats and smells like its prey? The Nepenthes biak is a medicinal plant with its medicinal values still to be discovered. However, the current knowledge indicates that the plant is endemic in the small Indonesian Island of Biak. However, the plant is severely endangered due to the high tourism in the island.
Dioscorea hurteri (Deep Purple Yam)
Deep purplish in color, the Dioscorea hurteri looks like a cross between the death worms of king kong and Sarlacc from the Star Wars. However, this weird climbing yam plant is believed to be a medicinal plant. Identified in 6 different places, such as the South African countries, KwaZulu-Natal and others, the plant’s other relatives are believed to help create the world’s first birth control pill.
