These leafless white wonders are commonly called “Indian Pipe” due to their pipe-like shape. Other names include “Ghost flower” and “Ice plant”.  They almost look like fungi but they are truly plants! They have no leaves. The shoots grow between 10 and 30 cm and each has a flower atop. The flowers start off nodding and do a full rotation. Once fertilized, the flower points straight upward.

Why are these plants white?

Because they have no chlorophyll! Most plants are green because they contain chlorophyll, which turns sunlight into sugar. Indian Pipe is different. It  has no chlorophyll or leaves and doesn’t need the sunlight to make food. Because these plants don’t need the sun, they can grow in very dark areas.

How do they get energy?

Indian Pipe roots have a special relationship with a fungus that breaks down the nutrients in the organic matter of the soil. This fungus also takes sugars from the roots of other plants and provides them to the Indian Pipe roots. The Indian Pipe uses the fungus to get sugar from other plant roots. They are kind of parasitic.

Pines and Oaks

Dark woodlands with rich humus are ideal habitats for Indian Pipe. They are often found growing among Pine and Oak trees. Perhaps they have a special relationship with the roots of these trees. Luckily High Park has some great White Pines and Oak trees.

Respect

Since these plants are so awe-inspiring, please enjoy them respectfully and remember to let them live so that they can spread their seeds!