Perei, Peri-root, Potato orchid
Gastrodia cunninghamii
Family: Orchidaceae
What it is like
An orchid. It grows on rotting plant material. It can be 90-100 cm high. The flowers are greyish white. It forms large tubers under the ground. These can be 45 cm long and 1 cm wide.
There are about 20 Gastrodia species.
Where it is found
They grow in swamplands and on wet forest floors.
Countries/locations it is found in
New Zealand (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The starchy roots are eaten.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Huperei