Monotropa uniflora

species

“Indian Pipe”

Monotropa uniflora, also known as Indian pipe or ghost plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the Monotropaceae family, which is a small family of plants that are closely related to the Ericaceae family. Monotropa uniflora is a myco-heterotrophic plant, which means that it obtains nutrients from fungi rather than from photosynthesis. As a result, it lacks chlorophyll and appears white or pale in color. It has a single, small, bell-shaped flower that is usually pink or white in color, and a single, slender stem that bears one or two small, scale-like leaves. Monotropa uniflora is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, bogs, and meadows, and it typically grows in partially shaded areas. It is considered an endangered species in some parts of its range.

Color

White

Parasitizes

Fungus

Shade Tolerance

High

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In Culture

“I still cherish the clutch with which I bore it from the ground when a wondering child, and unearthly booty, and maturity only enhances the mystery, never decreases it.”

— Emily Dickinson (Poet) referencing Indian Pipe

On the Web

On Wikipedia

Monotropa uniflora, also known as ghost plant, ghost pipe or Indian pipe, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of Asia, North America and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. The plant is sometimes completely waxy white, but often has black flecks or pale pink coloration. Rare variants may have a deep red color.