
(Sarcodes sanguinea)

Snow plant, Red snow plant, Sarcodes
Sarcodes sanguinea is a species of plant in the heath family. It is a mycoheterotroph, meaning it obtains its nutrients from fungi that live in association with the roots of trees. The plant produces no chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize its own food. Instead, it relies on the fungi to provide it with the necessary nutrients. The plant produces a single stem that terminates in a head of bright red flowers.
6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall and 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) wide
Sarcodes sanguinea prefers partial to full shade.
Sarcodes sanguinea prefers a humid environment.
The plant does not require fertilizer.
The plant does not require pruning.
Sarcodes sanguinea is not known to have any significant pest or disease problems.
Not suitable for indoor cultivation
The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season and should be kept relatively dry during the dormant season.
The plant can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) but prefers temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C).
Sarcodes sanguinea grows in the late spring and early summer.
Sarcodes sanguinea is difficult to grow due to its mycoheterotrophic nature and specific growing requirements.
Sarcodes sanguinea is found in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
The bright red color of Sarcodes sanguinea's stem and flowers is due to the presence of anthocyanin pigments, which protect the plant from the intense sunlight found at high elevations where it grows.