Rhizanthella is one of the most remarkable orchids on Earth — a plant that spends its entire life hidden beneath the soil. It never emerges above ground, produces no leaves, and survives by drawing nutrients from a specific fungus that connects to the roots of the broom bush (Melaleuca uncinata).
First discovered by a farmer ploughing his field in Western Australia in 1928, Rhizanthella immediately fascinated botanists worldwide. Finding it remains an immense challenge today. Scientists must carefully search the right habitats and gently scrape away soil to reveal its tiny reddish flowers, which are enclosed in creamy-pink bracts and release a strong vanilla scent. The blooms are thought to be pollinated by termites or small flies.
There are five known species of Rhizanthella, each among the rarest orchids in existence. With only a handful of surviving populations, they are critically threatened by habitat loss and droughts linked to climate change.
To save them, botanist Kingsley Dixon from the University of Western Australia is leading conservation efforts. His team is experimenting with growing the orchid’s symbiotic fungus alongside its seeds in laboratory conditions, before transferring the young plants to Melaleuca bushes cultivated in pots — a delicate process aimed at ensuring the survival of this hidden botanical wonder.
