These plants don’t photosynthesize!! Ghost pipes (Monotropa uniflora), are ghostly white because they lack chlorophyll (the green pigment). These plants obtain all their carbon and nutrients by parasitizing on underground fungus. They tap into fungi that form mutual partnerships with plants, thereby indirectly siphoning nutrients from photosynthetic hosts. This is known as mycoheterotrophy! They emerge from the ground in clusters, with their translucent stems topped with single, nodding flowers.

Monotropa uniflora, also known as ghost plant or Indian pipe, is a parasitic, flowering plant that lacks chlorophyll and appears white or pale pinkish-white. It's native to temperate regions of Asia, North America, and northern South America, but is rare and scarce. Appearance: The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and has a waxy, translucent appearance. It has a single flower on each stem, and the flower stalk is often flecked with black. #ilovethesmokies | I Love The Smoky Mountains