Indian Pipe (Monotropa uniflora)

Family: Indian Pipe Family (Monotropaceae)

Other Names: Corpse-Plant, American Ice Plant, Ghost-Flower, Fairy Smoke

Origin: Native

Historic First Bloom Seen: July 22*

GPS For Stand:

Interesting Facts: This plant completely lacks chlorophyll, and thus lacks the ability to photosynthesize (make food using the energy of the sun). Rather, this plant relies on a relationship with fungus in the soil to break down organic nutrients for the plant to uptake as food. The plant turns black if picked or touched. The alternate common name, Ice Plant, is because the plant is said to feel "ice cold" when touched. This species occurs in very localized populations in the woodland areas of the preserve.

*Average bloom time is based on a compilation of wildflower bloom times from 1975 to present.