Plants Like Animals

        There are an estimated 400,000 plant species growing on our planet, exhibiting a huge variation of colors and shapes. They range in size from microscopic algae that look like snowflakes to giant sequoia trees hundreds of feet tall. Some species have even evolved to look like an entirely different type of living creature altogether, whether as an adaptation that provides an evolutionary advantage or just as a happy quirk of nature. Either way, here’s a selection of plants that we think look a lot like animals.

1. MONKEY FACE ORCHID (DRACULA SIMIA)

Native to the mountainous regions of Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru, this rare orchid flower (pictured above) bears an uncanny resemblance to a monkey’s face. Its scientific name, Dracula simia, stems from the two long spurs that sprout from its blossoms like vampire fangs, while “simian” means monkey in Latin. Blooming all year round, the orchid also emits a scent like ripe oranges.

2. BEE ORCHID (OPHRYS APIFERA)

The bee orchid attracts male bees for pollination by mimicking a receptive female. As well as producing a scent that the male bee confuses with the alluring odor of a potential mate, its petals also resemble the female’s shape. When the male mistakenly tries to mate with the object of its affections, it also transfers pollen to the flower.

3. KANGAROO PAW (ANIGOZANTHOS MANGLESII)

The kangaroo paw is a group of 12 species of perennials whose clusters of flowers are said to look like the paws of a certain famous marsupial. The flowers are prized for their bright red and green colors, but the plant can only be found in the southern areas of Western Australia.

4. NAKED MAN ORCHID (ORCHIS ITALICA)

Also known as the Italian orchid, this flower has clusters of petals that look like cute little naked men. Flowering in April and May, it can grow up to 20 inches in height, but requires deep, rich soil.

5. PARROT FLOWER (IMPATIENS PSITTACINA)

With petals that resemble a flying parrot, Impatiens psittacina can be found growing wild in Thailand, Myanmar, and northeastern India. It was cataloged by British botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker after seeds were presented to Kew Gardens in 1899. Hooker was able to describe the flower in 1901 once it had produced flowers. Because the Thai government has prohibited its export, it remains a very rare species.