Western False Asphodel: Carnivorous Flower Stem for Nitrogen

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In summary, the western false asphodel (Triantha occidentalis) has been discovered to be a carnivorous plant, using sticky threads on its flower stem to trap and digest insects for nitrogen. This behavior is similar to that of sundew plants. The genus Philcoxia, which grows underground leaves to gather small soil nematodes, is another type of carnivorous plant mentioned in the articles. These plants have adapted to obtain nitrogen from their environments, which they cannot get from the soil. Additionally, the conversation mentions the potential use of carnivorous plants to control pests such as Japanese beetles and brown marmorated stink bugs. However, it is noted that these plants are not commonly found in the neighborhood. The use
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The western false asphodel (Triantha occidentalis) has been shown to be carnivorous, but only on the stem of it's flower (so only in flowering season).
Screen Shot 2021-08-10 at 2.34.24 PM.png


Insects get stuck on sticky little threads on the flower stem and then get digested there (kind of like a sundew plants does).
Screen Shot 2021-08-10 at 2.34.53 PM.png


News article from Science.
NY Times article.

One of the articles also mentioned the genus Philcoxia, another kind of carnivorous plant I had not heard of. It grows underground leaves to gather very small soil nematodes.

In all cases, the plants do this to get nitrogen, which they can not get from the soils in which they grow.
 
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That's awesome. Nature rulz!
 
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BillTre said:
The western false asphodel (Triantha occidentalis) has been shown to be carnivorous, but only on the stem of it's flower (so only in flowering season).
I'd like to find a plant that attracts and digests Japanese beetles and brown marmorated stink bugs.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_marmorated_stink_bug

Since the raspberry patch died back, we haven't seen Japanese beetles, but we see many stink bugs, mostly those that wintered in the siding and window frames.

I've seen fly traps and pitcher plants in the area, but non in our neighborhood.
 
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Astronuc said:
I'd like to find a plant that attracts and digests Japanese beetles and brown marmorated stink bugs
Samurai wasps are coming for rescue!
 
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1. What is Western False Asphodel?

Western False Asphodel is a type of flowering plant that is native to western North America. It is also known as the carnivorous flower stem because it has adapted to capture and digest insects for additional nutrients.

2. How does Western False Asphodel obtain nitrogen?

Unlike other plants that obtain nitrogen from the soil, Western False Asphodel has evolved to obtain nitrogen from the insects it captures. The plant secretes a sticky substance that traps insects, and then uses enzymes to break down the insect's proteins into nitrogen that it can absorb.

3. Why does Western False Asphodel have a carnivorous adaptation?

This adaptation is believed to have evolved due to the plant's natural habitat, which is often low in nutrients. By capturing and digesting insects, Western False Asphodel is able to supplement its nutrient intake and survive in these harsh environments.

4. Is Western False Asphodel dangerous to humans?

No, Western False Asphodel is not dangerous to humans. While it is carnivorous, it is not large enough to capture and digest anything larger than small insects. The plant poses no threat to humans or other animals.

5. Can Western False Asphodel be grown in a garden or as a houseplant?

Yes, Western False Asphodel can be grown in a garden or as a houseplant. However, it is important to note that the plant requires specific growing conditions, such as moist soil and high humidity, in order to thrive. It may also need to be fed insects or other sources of nitrogen to ensure its survival.

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