Nature never fails to amaze us. From plants that eat insects to flowers that bloom only once a decade, the botanical world is packed with surprises. But perhaps one of the most fascinating tricks up nature’s sleeve is mimicry. Some plants have evolved in such a way that they look strikingly like animals. Whether it’s to attract pollinators, ward off predators, or simply by strange coincidence, these remarkable plants blur the line between flora and fauna. Here are ten of the most incredible plants that look just like animals.
10. Octopus Stinkhorn (Clathrus archeri) – Plant That Looks Like an Octopus
This bizarre fungus, commonly known as the Octopus Stinkhorn, is native to Australia and Tasmania but has also been introduced to Europe. It begins its life encased in an egg-like structure before bursting open to reveal four to eight spindly arms, just like an octopus. These fleshy arms are bright red and coated in a foul-smelling spore-laden substance that resembles rotting meat – a scent that helps attract flies for pollination.
9. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) – Plant That Looks Like a Bird
Although its common name suggests a resemblance to moths, many agree that this elegant flower more closely resembles a bird in flight. Native to southeast Asia, from the Himalayas to the islands of Polillo, its wing-like petals and upright posture create an uncanny avian silhouette. The name Phalaenopsis is derived from the Greek word for “moth-like”, yet its graceful shape evokes both beauty and movement.
8. Fly Orchid (Ophrys insectifera) – Plant That Looks Like a Fly
Native to Europe and fond of alkaline soils, the Fly Orchid is an impressive mimic. Its flowers look strikingly like insects, particularly flies. This clever disguise isn’t just for show – the plant emits a scent that mimics female fly pheromones, luring in male flies that unwittingly assist in pollination. It’s one of the best-known examples of sexual deception in the plant kingdom.
7. Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) – Plant That Looks Like a Bee
Another master of disguise, the Bee Orchid is well known across Europe. Its name comes from the Greek “Ophrys” (meaning “eyebrow”) and the Latin “apifera” (meaning “bee-bearing”). The flower closely resembles a female bee, both in shape and colour, enticing male bees to land on it in the hopes of mating. This results in successful pollination through a rather devious yet effective evolutionary trick.
6. Butterfly Wing Plant (Christia vespertilionis) – Plant That Looks Like a Butterfly
Native to southeast Asia and Australia, this eye-catching plant is best known for its stunning leaves that resemble butterfly wings. With vivid, variegated patterns and delicate, trailing stems, it’s easy to see why it’s become a favourite among gardeners and collectors. While the flowers themselves are modest, the foliage steals the show.
5. Parrot Flower (Impatiens psittacina) – Plant That Looks Like a Parrot
Often referred to as the Parrot Balsam, this rare and exotic plant was first described by botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker. Found in Thailand, Burma and parts of India, its blossoms bear an astonishing resemblance to a flying cockatoo. Due to its rarity and strict export laws, it remains one of the most elusive flowers in the world.
4. Monkey Orchid (Dracula simia) – Plant That Looks Like a Monkey’s Face
This fascinating orchid, native to the cloud forests of Ecuador and Peru, looks just like a monkey’s face. Its common name – Monkey Orchid – says it all. The combination of column, petals and lip forms an expressive face, complete with eyes, nose and a furry muzzle. It blooms at various times throughout the year, often producing several flowers in succession.
3. White Egret Orchid (Habenaria radiata) – Plant That Looks Like a Dove
Also known as the White Dove Orchid, this stunning flower resembles a dove or egret in mid-flight. Native to Japan, China, Korea and parts of Russia, its delicate white petals form the shape of wings and a tiny beak. It’s a symbol of purity and grace and is highly prized among orchid enthusiasts for both its beauty and symbolism.
2. Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri) – Plant That Looks Like a Bat
This dramatic plant belongs to the yam family and produces eerie, bat-shaped black flowers. Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, its blossoms can span up to 30 centimetres across, complete with long, trailing ‘whiskers’ that may grow up to 70 centimetres in length. Its gothic appearance has earned it a cult following among exotic plant lovers.
1. Flying Duck Orchid (Caleana major) – Plant That Looks Like a Duck
Topping the list is the astonishing Flying Duck Orchid, found in eastern and southern Australia. This small terrestrial orchid produces flowers that look exactly like a duck mid-flight. The illusion is so perfect that it almost seems animated. It attracts insects such as male sawflies, which are tricked into pollinating the plant through a process known as pseudocopulation.
The plant world is full of surprises, and these incredible examples of mimicry show just how imaginative nature can be. Whether to trick, attract or simply amaze, these plants have evolved to mirror creatures from the animal kingdom with astonishing precision.
If this list amazed you as much as it did me, why not share it with someone who loves nature’s oddities? And don’t forget to leave a comment letting us know which of these botanical copycats was your favourite!