Hydnoraceae

Hydnoraceae is a small family of parasitic flowering plants. These plants are unusual in that they lack chlorophyll and are therefore unable to photosynthesize. Instead, they obtain their nutrients by parasitizing the roots of other plants, primarily legumes. The family contains only two genera, Hydnora and Prosopanche, with a total of about six species.

Species in Hydnoraceae are found in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, Madagascar, and Central and South America. They are characterized by their subterranean, fleshy stems and their inconspicuous, flower-like structures that emerge briefly from the soil. The flowers are typically foul-smelling, attracting carrion beetles and flies for pollination. The fruit is a large, fleshy berry that ripens underground and is dispersed by animals.

The lifecycle of Hydnoraceae is poorly understood due to their subterranean nature. The parasitic attachment to host roots is established early in development. The mature plant consists primarily of the root parasite, with only the reproductive structures becoming visible above ground. Due to their restricted distribution and specialized habitat, many species are considered rare or endangered. Their parasitic lifestyle makes them challenging to cultivate, and their economic importance is minimal, though some species have been used in traditional medicine. The unique morphology and obligate parasitic nature of Hydnoraceae make them a subject of significant botanical interest.