A unique plant that lacks chlorophyll. Pure white throughout.

Also called: Indian Pipe, Ghost Plant, Corpse Plant

Native status: Native to eastern North America

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 15–30 cm
LifespanPerennial
OrderEricales
FamilyEricaceae

§ Encyclopedia

Monotropa uniflora, also known as the American Indian ghost pipe plant, is a herbaceous, parasitic, non-photosynthesizing, perennial flowering plant native to temperate regions of Asia, North America, and northern South America, but with large gaps between areas. The plant is waxy white, but some specimens have been described as having black flecks or pale pink coloration. Rare variants may have a deep red color. The name "Monotropa" is Greek for "one turn" and "uniflora" is Latin for "one flowered" as there is one sharply curved stem for each single flower. M.uniflora is commonly found growing in clumps of 2 or more, with its fungal source nearby.

Source: Wikipedia — Monotropa uniflora Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Pure white fleshy stem with no green parts; nodding white flower at top; clusters of stems push up through forest leaf litter.

Similar species. Pinesap (Monotropa hypopitys — pink or yellow stems). Other myco-heterotrophs.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis

Behavior. Mycoheterotroph — receives nutrients from mycorrhizal fungi linked to nearby trees rather than photosynthesis. Lacks chlorophyll, giving "ghost plant" appearance.

§ Range

Across North America

§ Habitat

Mature forests

§ Threats

Forest loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the indian pipe is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support mature forest conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USDA Plants Database
  • Cornell Mushroom Blog