An Interview with Plant Science Writer Zhai Weiwei

Zhai Weiwei, 40, is a dedicated plant science communicator based in Nanjing, Jiangsu province. Fascinated by the natural world from an early age, she transitioned from a career as an electronic countermeasure engineer to explore her passion for plants. In 2019, she left her engineering role to immerse herself in the study of botany at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan province, where she attended lectures on botanical research for six months.

Throughout her journey, Zhai has developed a deep admiration for both plants and birds. She enjoys photographing rare plant species and appreciates not just their visual beauty but also their essential roles in ecosystems. During a memorable visit to Beijing in December, she encountered the vibrant yellow fruits of the parasitic plant Loranthus tanakae. This species, found in the Loranthaceae family, blends into the treetops during summer but becomes prominent in winter when other leaves have fallen.

Loranthus tanakae thrives by drawing water and nutrients from its host trees, while the nearby Viscum coloratum showcases its unique red and yellow fruits. Both species possess their own stems and leaves, allowing some degree of photosynthesis. A study cited by Zhai in the journal Flora reveals that the fruit colors of these parasitic plants are influenced more by geographical factors than by the particular tree species they inhabit.

To survive harsh winters, plants like Loranthus tanakae adapt by moving nutrients from their leaves to their roots and adjusting the concentration of their cell sap to avoid freezing. While some view parasitic plants as harmful, Zhai argues for their vital role in ecosystems, noting that they represent an evolutionary strategy to survive in competition with autotrophic plants. Their presence contributes to biodiversity, which strengthens the stability of the climate and ecosystem.

In winter, the bright fruits of these parasitic plants provide essential nutrition for birds and small rodents, which also aid in seed dispersal for plant reproduction. Zhai hopes to inspire a wider audience, beyond just children, to recognize the beauty of plants and cultivate a desire to learn more about the natural world.