Kip’s Comments - August 23, 2024
Ghost Plant (aka Indian Pipe) and More
It is the time of year when a very unusual flower is visible in limited locations. Indian pipe or Ghost Plant or several other names is now blooming where conditions are suitable.
What makes Indian pipe unique is the plant lacks chlorophyl. As a result, Indian pipe is white. Since the plant cannot convert sunlight to energy, Indian pipe parasitizes nearby plants through fungi and their root system. There is much more to Indian pipe, but I will let you study to your curiosity level.
I found several buried under and around stinging nettles. The nettles did not contribute to a positive outdoor experience, but the Indian pipe - especially a couple of really nice looking plants - made up for the nettle discomfort.
For the sake of the plant I will not reveal the location.
While I was out I photographed other interesting natural items too.