Ghost pipe
Monotropa uniflora

Appearance

The ghost pipe is a small plant which typically grows 4-8 inches tall and is completely white in color. The ghost pipe contains one downturned flower per stem, with 4-5 petals and no sepals. While the flower blooms white, it often turns purple and later black as it dies. The ghost pipe has no leaves, instead there are scales on the floral stem. 

Reproduction and life cycle

The flower of the ghost pipe blooms from early summer to early autumn. The single flower contains 10-12 stamens and a single pistil. The fruit of the plant enlarges and becomes upright when the seeds mature, attracting pollinators. After the plant has been pollinated, the seeds are pushed through the petals in a small slit and are dispersed via wind. 

Did you know?

• The ghost pipe is completely white in appearance due to its lack of chlorophyll, the green pigment that plants typically use to make food during photosynthesis. Its absence of pigmentation and need for light also means it can survive in very shaded areas.
• Because the ghost pipe is unable to obtain nutrients from light, the plant uses fungi to extract nutrients from other tree roots and decaying substances in the soil.
• Although ghost pipe has been used medicinally by some Native American tribes, it is mildly toxic to humans and most animals, and does not have many known predators. 

Sources and additional information

• Ghost Pipe - U.S. Forest Service
• Ghost Pipe (Indian Pipe) - Missouri Department of Conservation 
• Ghost Pipe (Monotropa uniflora) - iNaturalist 
• Ghost Pipe Plant - Red House Garden