#monotropaceae

Monotropa hypopitys or pinesap plants are the most amazing colors! And they way they come coiling up out of the pine needles is so otherworldly. I love these flowers, who are thought to be epiparasites obtaining nutrients from ectomycorrhizal fungi who form relationships with pines. The large, yolk-like stigma can be seen in both images, as can the leaf-like bracts of the stem. #monotropa #monotropahypopitys #monotropaceae #arizona #ponderosapineforests #nativeplants #botanize #botany #plants #nature #naturephotography  #botanylove #plantstagram #naturelovers #natureishappiness (at San Francisco Peaks)

Also known as Ghost Plant, Corpse Plant, and Indian Pipe, this plant is often mistaken for a mushroom or fungus because of it’s lack of chlorophyll.  Instead of using photosynthesis themselves, these plant draw energy from fungus that are mycorrhizal with trees.

No chlorophyll <3

? by kellypuffs on Flickr.