Aetanthus is a very rare and unusual parasitic plant that produces striking red and yellow flowers. The species is native to northern South America, particularly the higher elevations of Peru, Ecuador and Colombia. There, it grows in tropical forests on the trunks of other trees. The species is hemiparasitic, which means that in addition to absorbing nutrients from the host plant, it also performs photosynthesis itself. This means that the host plant is essentially unaffected by the parasitic plant. The plant forms woody stems with oval leaves and narrow, long red flowers with yellow tips. The fruits change colour from red to black as they ripen. In nature, the flowers are mainly pollinated by hummingbirds and the fruits produced by the species are also eaten by birds. The flesh of the fruit is so sticky that the seeds stick to the bird's beak. When the bird tries to wipe the seed off on a branch, it sticks there and the seed can germinate on the new host plant.
In temperate climates, the species can be kept as a houseplant in tropical conditions. A location with plenty of indirect light, warmth and high humidity is important. It is a difficult species, but also a very special one for any plant collection.
Sowing description: It is a difficult species to germinate. The seeds are still in the fruit and can be stuck to a tree/plant with rough and moist bark using the sticky pulp. High humidity is important for this and can be achieved by regularly misting the bark and the seed. Ensure a temperature above 20 °C. Germination can take a long time and can take several weeks to months.
