Katherine Clarkson

As we approach Halloween, let us embrace the darker side of gardening. Traditional gardens are serene and beautiful, but spooky plants bring a unique charm to your collection. Let us explore the intriguing world of scary plants and how they add a touch of eerie enchantment.

We will begin our journey to the depths of the dense, shadowy forest, where moonlight dares not penetrate. There lies the eerie realm of the ghost orchid. It’s pallid, translucent petals flicker like ghostly apparitions in the dim light. Ghost orchids have white, flattened roots that blend in with their surroundings, making them look ghostly. Their roots perform photosynthesis, allowing the orchid to survive because they do not have leaves. Also, legend tells of people who find this ghostly flower are tormented by its chilling essence and haunted by eerie whispers in their dreams. The ghost orchid is a frightening flower that scares even the bravest people. What is ghostly, black, and white all over? The ghost plants. More commonly known as Indian pipe. You will often find Indian pipes in dark and eerie environments. Light is unnecessary for its photosynthesis process because the plant lacks chlorophyll. Instead, the food source for this plant is a lot more sinister, for it is a parasite! Specifically, Indian pipes are parasitic on mycorrhizal fungi in the soil.

The corpse flower is a plant that smells like rotten flesh when it is blooming. Although its scent is unpleasant, its rare and massive bloom is a remarkable sight, captivating the brave souls who venture close. Another plant that has a ghostly appearance is dead man’s fingers. It gets its eerie name, from its blue fruit clusters that look like creepy appendages coming out of the earth. It may send shivers down your spine and its striking appearance can add a macabre yet captivating touch to your garden collection.

There is a carnivorous creation that lies in wait to consume its unexpecting prey, known as the Venus flytrap. This plant has snapping jaws that can lure insects and spiders. Watch in awe as it captures its prey. The cobra plant is another carnivorous plant. It has tubular leaves that resemble striking cobras, complete with fangs. Its allure lies in its ability to trap insects and consume them for sustenance, a haunting reminder of the circle of life.

Scary plants in your collection allow you to embrace the mysterious and awe-inspiring aspects of nature. These plants not only challenge our perceptions but also remind us of the intricate and often unsettling beauty that exists in the natural world. So, dare to be different and let your houseplants become a haven for the eerie enchantment of scary plants! Happy haunting gardeners! Thank you for reading and if you have and questions or comments, please reach out to me at katherineclarkson2@gmail.com.

(Katherine Clarkson is the president of the Park County Master Gardeners. She lives in Wapiti.)