Rare leafless orchids found in Lixiang Park

A resident surnamed Lin discovered a rare wild plant, Eulophia zollingeri (Rchb.f.) J.J. Sm., while strolling in Lixiang Park, Nanshan District, on May 8.

After learning of the situation, the district’s park management office quickly organized personnel to guard the scene, according to Shekou News.

On the following day, in an effort to better protect the plant, the Nanshan Park Service organized experts to artificially pollinate the orchids. Many citizens gathered around the enclosure to observe and take photographs, with park staff standing guard nearby.

Upon arriving at the scene, Kong Demin and Wen Yiming, two orchid conservation experts, identified the five orchids found in Lixiang Park as Eulophia zollingeri (Rchb.f.) J.J. Sm., a relatively rare wild orchid species.

Although this plant has not yet been listed in the national key protected wild plant list, it falls under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix II.

Eulophia zollingeri (Rchb.f.) J.J. Sm. is a kind of saprophytic orchids, with a flowering period in April and May. Lacking leaves, it can’t carry out photosynthesis or derive nourishment conventionally through leaves. Instead, it forms a symbiotic relationship with fungi for sustenance.

“Two flowers were collected on site to make specimens for preservation, and in accordance with the operation procedure, artificial pollination was conducted on two healthier orchids,” Kong explained. “If pollinated successfully, they will bear fruit and produce seeds for subsequent artificial propagation.”

According to experts’ on-site analysis, the reason why the orchids can grow in the park is due to the presence of symbiotic fungi suitable for its growth and favorable ecological conditions.

After trees are appropriately pruned, the orchids can receive adequate sunlight, which creates a natural environment conducive to the semi-shaded growth preferences of the species.

The discovery of the orchids in the park was the first public report of this species found in Shenzhen in recent years, experts said.

Due to its rarity, measures have been taken to prevent theft and vandalism and to keep it at a certain distance from tourists.

Currently, the park has reached a preliminary cooperation intention with the China National Orchid Conservation Center. Professional protection will be provided for the five discovered orchids, and attempts will be made to cultivate artificially propagated seedlings.

Data shows that Nanshan has recorded 643 species of vascular plants and 400 species of animals in the past two years. Among them, there are 11 national key protected and rare endangered plant species and 32 animal species.