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pinesap

Scientific Name: Monotropa hypopithys

Family: Monotropaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: FL (pinesap (unnamed)), IA (pinesap)

       

Monotropa hypopitys: The Pinesap (and Other Names!)

Monotropa hypopitys, also known as Dutchman's pipe, false beech-drops, pinesap, or yellow bird's-nest, is a fascinating plant with a unique lifestyle.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is sometimes found in gardens and woodland areas.
  • Monotropa hypopitys is often described as reddish, and some people may find it visually appealing.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is sometimes found in gardens and woodland areas.
  • Monotropa hypopitys is often described as reddish, and some people may find it visually appealing.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Monotropa hypopitys
  • Common Names: Dutchman's pipe, false beech-drops, pinesap, yellow bird's-nest, many-flower Indian-pipe, sweet pinesap, Carolina beechdrops, pygmy pipes, Appalachian Pygmy Pipes
  • Synonyms: Hypopitys americana, Hypopitys fimbriata, Hypopitys insignata, Hypopitys lanuginosa
  • Family: Heath family (Ericaceae)

Distribution and Habitat

Pinesap has a wide geographic distribution and is found throughout the United States. It grows in woodland humus.

Ecological Role

  • Pinesap is a myco-heterotroph (formerly thought to be a saprophyte). This means it obtains its nourishment from fungi, rather than through photosynthesis. It may also function as a parasite on tree roots.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Pinesap is a herbaceous perennial plant.
  • The plant is fleshy and can be white or reddish in color. Some are yellowish to dull brown, clear yellow, or red.
  • It has racemes with drooping flowers, which can be pale creamy yellow, coral pink, or reddish brown.
  • Stems are single or in clumps.
  • It has small scale-like leaves along the stems.

Quirky Facts

  • Some people find sweet pinesap to be elusive.