Gastrodia cunninghamii, or black orchid, black potato orchid, or perei in MÃÂori, is a species of parasitic orchid, endemic to New Zealand. It grows in the North Island, south of the Waikato, and in the South Island, Stewart Island, and the Chathams. It is not threatened, and is widespread in forested areas.
The orchid grows to a height of , and has an erect stem and swollen rhizomes. It can be distinguished from other members of Gastrodia due to its short column, not visible at the flower mouth.
The species was first described in 1853 by Joseph Dalton Hooker. The type specimen was gathered in the Ruahines.
The species epithet refers to botanist Allan Cunningham. MÃÂori language names include perei and hà «perei. Common names in English include black orchid, potato orchid and black potato orchid.
Gastrodia cunninghamii is a parasitic orchid, which does not photosynthesise, and has no leaves. It is dependent upon a symbiotic relationship with a fungus, Armillaria novae-zelandiae for nutrients, which in turn takes nutrients from host trees. It is often found near Nothofagus trees.
The species flowers between November to February.
The species is endemic to New Zealand, growing in the North Island, south of the Waikato, and in the South Island, Stewart Island, and the Chathams. It is commonly found in forested areas, thriving in dark undergrowth.
The rhizomes are valued as a traditional food by MÃÂori.