昨年、共著した農業本のおかげで、植物界にどっぷり浸った一年を過ごしました。それまで気づかなかった植物の面白さに完全にハマりました。
先日、「魅惑（Fascination）」、「神秘（Mystery）」、「ハニートラップ（Honey Trap）」の花言葉を持つ、なんとも蠱惑的な植物を手に入れました。さて、なんの植物だと思いますか？
月下美人？
夜香木？
黒薔薇？黒百合？ ブー
ジャーン！立派な捕虫袋を持つウツボカズラ(Nepenthes)でした。
花言葉、「魅惑（Fascination）」、「神秘（Mystery）」、「ハニートラップ（Honey Trap）」
静かに文句も言わず、ピラミッド状の食物連鎖の最下層の地位に甘んじ、その余剰を他の生物に分け与える…という植物の概念を根元からひっくり返す食虫植物。毒キノコや幻惑の植物たちと同様にイカしてる！と思うわけです。
熱帯雨林が故郷で、高温多湿好きのウツボンくん。これからよろしくね。
🌿✨ The Fascinating Encounter with Utsubon-kun ✨🌿
Last year, I dove headfirst into the plant world thanks to a co-authored agriculture book. It was a year filled with newfound appreciation for the incredible variety of plants out there.
Recently, I stumbled upon a plant with flower meanings that include "Fascination," "Mystery," and the intriguingly named "Honey Trap." Intrigued? You should be.
Moonlight Beauty?
Night-Blooming Jasmine? Irises in Disguise?
But can you guess which plant I'm talking about?
Ta-da! It's a majestic pitcher plant, also known as Utsubon-kun (Nepenthes).
This isn't just any plant. Utsubon-kun challenges the traditional notion of plants quietly existing at the bottom of the food chain, sharing their excess with other beings. Like toxic mushrooms and other enchanting flora, Utsubon-kun flips the script with its carnivorous nature. It's simply awesome!
Hailing from the rainforests and loving the high heat and humidity, Utsubon-kun is a fascinating addition to my plant family. Welcome, Utsubon-kun! 🌿🪴