Indian pipe – FranLaff.com

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Common Name

Indian pipe

Scientific Name

Monotropa uniflora

More Clues to ID

This WHITE little plant completely lacks chlorophyll and is often mistaken for a fungus or mushroom. In truth, it is a parasite of fungi that feed on tree roots, and is often found in the shade beneath beech or maple trees.

This striking little plant MAY be an anticonvulsive, analgesic, and anti-anxiety treatment. However, this is based on past use, not on proven science, so do be careful. Sources are unclear whether it is edible or not, but bears seem to enjoy them.

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Learn about this species:

It can be very easy to overlook this tiny plant growing on the forest floor. If you do manage to find one, it can feel like finding a special treasure!

Image Credits

Bob Gutowski from Flourtown, Pennsylvania, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Magellan nh, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
HLWolfe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
DragonFire1024, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Walter Siegmund, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Will Brown, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sage Ross, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ryan Hodnett, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
other pics from Pixabay or are in the Public Domain

Pssst…

Did you know that this and other species are waiting their turns to be added to Fran’s FREE online courses, like the PLANTS course, or the BIRDS course?

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