Ghost Pipe

Ghost Pipe (Monotropa uniflora) is once again flourishing at the Sanctuary. A careful walk along the Lookout Trail can result in great views of this haunting plant. Look for a cluster of pure white stalks, approximately 4-8 inches tall, each with a single flower that curves down towards the ground. Ghost pipes lack chlorophyll, so to survive they sap nutrients from nearby tree roots through myccorhizal fungi. Because of this they can thrive in heavily shaded areas of the forest where most other plants would die off. Ghost pipes can be found in North America, South America, Central America, and Asia, but are challenging to see because of their specific growing conditions. 

Photo by Laura Berry.