Hello everyone! 🌺

Today, I’d like to talk about a rare plant native to Iriomote Island called “Gobannoashi.” This beautiful plant has a flower that only blooms at night and lasts for just one evening before it wilts by morning, making it incredibly fleeting. The flower is pure white, with delicate stamens fanning out, giving it an elegant appearance, distinct from other tropical blooms.

The name “Gobannoashi” comes from its fruit, which resembles the legs of a Go board. It grows in tropical regions from the Indian to the Pacific Ocean, and in Japan, it’s only found in the Yaeyama Islands. You can spot it along Iriomote’s mangrove forests and coastal areas.

Gobannoashi is also an endangered species, so encountering one can be rare. If you’re lucky, you might see its mysterious bloom during an evening walk, as it flowers from dusk to nighttime. Exploring Iriomote at night in search of this enchanting plant could make your visit even more magical 🌿.

This plant truly showcases the richness and fleeting beauty of tropical nature. I hope you’ll get a chance to appreciate its charm too!