Ghostly plant

Growing to about 10 inches tall and sometimes mistaken as a strange kind of fungus, this odd-looking native plant is actually a member of the blueberry family. Called "ghost plant" because of its ghostly semi-transparent appearance, it is also named "Indian pipe" because of its shape.

The Indian pipe grows in deeply shaded woods where the soil is rich. Often found growing nearby will be pine trees or American beech trees. The Indian pipe is a parasitic plant whose roots tap into the roots of living trees and fungus. Its ability to survive without chlorophyll allows it to do this. The lack of chlorophyll is why the plant isn't green.

Pictured here is a cluster of Indian pipe I discovered in a Scott County forest. It is nearly ready to bloom. The flowers will rise up skyward when in full bloom and bees will tend them. The seed pods will look similar to small pumpkins. actually turning orange-brown as the pods mature and die.

Falling light rain can add appeal to an otherwise stagnant, colorless scene. This flower, although dainty in appearance, is hard stemmed with scalelike leaves that are stiff and hard. Getting your camera as low as possible will often give you the best vantage point, but always protect it from contact with rain and dirt.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo column by Aaron Horrell.