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Monotropa hypopitys

Ericaceae

Pinesap

Monotropa hypopitys
Plants erect, light yellowish to dull brown, clear yellow or red. Stems single or in clumps. Small scale-like leaves along stems. Waxy flowers 20–30, bell-shaped, nodding, atop stem. A saprophyte in old conifer forests in deep shade and deep humus, widespread around the world. Monotropa refers to the flowers all facing one way. Pinesap, like other plants with no chlorophyll, saps the roots of nearby plants for food.

  • Rarity: Uncommon
  • Flowering Time: Early Summer, Mid Summer, Late Summer
  • Flower Form: Petals 5, Completely Free, Regular Shape, Ovary Su
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 2–10 inches
  • Habitat: East-side Forest, West-side Forest
  • Found In: Crater Lake NP, Mt. Rainier NP, N Cascades NP, Olympic NP, Wallowas
  • Native: Yes
  • Latin Synonyms: Hypopitys monotropa

Map of where Monotropa hypopitys is found