New orchids with delicate, glass-like blooms discovered in Japan
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Samples of the plant, dubbed "Spiranthes hachijoensis", were found in potted plants and gardens, hiding in plain sight.
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The rosy pink petals of Spiranthes hachijoensis (Kobe University)
A new species of orchids with pink and white delicate, glass-like blooms was discovered by Japanese scientists.
The plant has been present in Japan's parks and gardens. It however took researchers at Kobe University a decade to confirm that it was a previously unknown species.
"It was a surprise to discover a new species of Spiranthes, which is so common that you can see it in parks, gardens, and among potted plants," lead researcher Kenji Suetsugu told AFP Thursday.
Samples of the plant, dubbed "Spiranthes hachijoensis", were found in potted plants and gardens, including some kept at a high school in Japan's central Gifu region, the phytology professor said.
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"From its curious look and dainty blooms that resemble glasswork, this flower has long been loved by people," the university confirmed in a press release.
The plant was mentioned in Japan's oldest anthology of poems with its spiraling blossoms.
The discovery of the new spiranthes was announced last week in the Journal of Plant Research. It was named "hachijoensis" due to the presence of many samples on Tokyo's Hachijojima island.
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