Ghost Pipe
Monotropa uniflora
PLANT NAME
Ghost Pipe
COMMON NAMES
Indian Pipe, Corpse Plant, Ghost Plant
BOTANICAL NAME
Monotropa uniflora
IDENTIFICATION
A completely white, translucent, non-photosynthetic (achlorophyllous) plant that grows in dark forest understories. It features a single bell-shaped flower that nods downward but turns upright when fertilized.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Whole plant (roots and aerial parts).
CULINARY USES
INFORMATION NOT RELIABLY ESTABLISHED. Not considered edible.
TRADITIONAL USES
Traditionally used by Native American tribes as a potent nervine and antispasmodic. Formulated into tinctures to treat severe physical and emotional pain, panic attacks, and nervous system overstimulation.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to temperate regions of Asia, North America, and northern South America. It is a mycoheterotroph, meaning it parasitizes fungi associated with tree roots. It cannot be cultivated and should only be wildcrafted with extreme care to avoid disrupting fragile forest ecosystems.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Contains glycosides that may be toxic in large amounts. Extremely potent nervine action. Not well-studied; use requires expert guidance. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.
RELATED PLANTS
Pinesap (Monotropa hypopitys).