This Ghostly Indiana Plant Doesn’t Need Sunshine

At first glance, it looks more like something from a fantasy novel than an Indiana wildflower.

Completely white, almost translucent, and growing from the forest floor, ghost pipe is one of the most unusual native plants you'll find in the Hoosier State. The Indiana DNR Division of Forestry recently shared photos of the rare-looking plant after it bloomed in a State Forest.

Its eerie appearance isn't the only thing that makes ghost pipe fascinating.

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A Plant That Doesn't Need Sunshine

Unlike nearly every other plant you see growing in Indiana, ghost pipe doesn't contain chlorophyll.

That means it can't photosynthesize or make its own food using sunlight, which is why it's entirely white instead of green.

Instead, ghost pipe survives through a process called mycoheterotrophy. Rather than producing its own nutrients, it relies on an underground network of fungi that are connected to nearby tree roots. Through that fungal network, the plant obtains the necessary carbohydrates and nutrients it needs to survive.

It's a pretty remarkable strategy that allows ghost pipe to thrive in the deep shade of mature forests where very little sunlight reaches the ground.

Read More: Over 1,400 Acres Added to Indiana's Parks System

You'll Only See It for a Short Time

Another reason ghost pipe is so easy to miss is that it spends most of the year underground.

According to the Indiana DNR, the plant is only visible while it's blooming during the summer months. The USDA Forest Service says flowering typically occurs between June and September, with each stem producing a single flower.

Most plants grow about 4 to 8 inches tall and are often found in small clusters among the leaf litter of shady woodlands.

Although they're usually bright white, some whost pipe plants can develop pale pink coloring or small black speckles as they age.

Where You Can Find Ghost Pipe

Ghost pipe is native to Indiana and grows in rich, shaded forests throughout much of the eastern United States.

The Indiana DNR recently documented blooming plants in Clark State Forest, but the species can be found in suitable woodland habitats across the state.

If you're hoping to spot one, keep your eyes on the forest floor during your next summer hike. Because the blooms are short-lived and blend into the leaf litter, you'll need a sharp eye and a little luck.

And while it can be tempting to pick such an unusual plant, it's best to leave it where you find it so others can enjoy discovering one of Indiana's most unique native wildflowers.