What is "balanophora"

Balanophora is a genus of about 100 species of parasitic plants in the family Balanophoraceae found in parts of tropical and temperate Asia, including the Malesia region, Pacific Islands, Madagascar, and tropical Africa. Of these 19 are accepted species names (without a newly discovered species B. coralliformis). Many species emit an odour which possibly attracts pollinators in the same way that pollinators are attracted to Rafflesia.

Balanophora species are used in folk medicine in many Asian cultures. For example, in China, Balanophora is known as she-gu (stone-fungus) and in Thailand as hoh-ra-tao-su-nak. In both cases, the plant is used to treat a variety of ailments. The tubers of Balanophora are rich in a wax-like substance which is used in Java as a fuel for torches.