Many are deciduous. The fig family is well represented among stranglers. Parasites derive their nutrients by tapping into the roots or stems of photosynthetic species. Rafflesia arnoldi , a root parasite of a liana, has the world's largest flower, more than three feet in diameter. It produces an odor similar to rotting flesh to attract pollinating insects.
Saprophytes derive their nutrients from decaying organic matter.
Some orchids employ this strategy common to fungi and bacteria. Common characteristics of tropical trees. Tropical species frequently possess one or more of the following attributes not seen in trees of higher latitudes. Originally believed to help support the tree, now it is believed that the buttresses channel stem flow and its dissolved nutrients to the roots. Large leaves are common among trees of the C layer.