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Project Noah Nature School
Monotropa uniflora
Unlike most plants, it is white and does not contain chlorophyll. Instead of generating energy from sunlight, it is parasitic, more specifically a myco-heterotroph. Its hosts are certain fungi that are mycorrhizal with trees, meaning it ultimately gets its energy from photosynthetic trees. Since it is not dependent on sunlight to grow, it can grow in very dark environments as in the understory of dense forest.The white is almost sparkling when the light hits it.
Deep in a forest, along a hiking trail. A small creek was nearby.
Located in Gunpowder Falls State Park, Baltimore County, MD.
You're welcome! The Indian Pipe is one of my favorites, and I envy you for spotting the white one since I spotted only the pinkish ones.
Thanks! I think they are even more beautiful since they are considered rare.
Now it makes sense why I couldn't find them on any mushroom ID sites.
Very beautiful! This is actually a herbaceous perennial plant, rather than a mushroom. :-)
Spotted on Jun 15, 2013
Submitted on Jun 19, 2013
