Rare Fairy Lantern Plant Discovered in Malaysia

Malaysia has recorded a rare and unusual plant known as a fairy lantern in Selangor, reminding us that even familiar forests still hold hidden surprises. The plant was discovered at Taman Eko Rimba Sungai Chongkak, within the Hulu Langat Forest Reserve, an area popular with hikers and picnickers.

Scientifically named Thismia selangorensis, this tiny plant is very different from ordinary plants. It has no green leaves and does not need sunlight to survive. Instead, it gets its nutrients from fungi underground, spending most of its life hidden beneath the forest floor and only appearing briefly when it flowers.

The fairy lantern grows just a few centimetres tall and produces a small, lantern-shaped flower with soft pink and earthy tones. Because it appears for a very short time and blends into the forest floor, it is rarely seen.

The news of this rare plant in Malaysia first appeared on PhotoKeys.

Conclusion

Only a small number of these plants have been found to date, all within the same forest area, raising concerns about their long-term survival. The discovery underscores the need to protect Malaysia’s forests, as even small and fragile species play a significant role in the country’s natural heritage.