Beech-drops Epifagus virginiana

From the Greek word 'epi' meaning 'upon' and 'phagos'  translating to 'beech', comes Beach-drops which is a parasitic wildflower only found growing under Fagus grandifolia or American Beech trees in eastern North America.  They are considered parasitic due to its dependency upon the Beech tree to survive.  The roots of the Beech tree release chemicals into the soil that trigger the germination of Beechdrop seed. Beech-drops have no chlorophyll and survive solely by getting its nutrients from American Beech tree roots. It has interesting copper-purple flowers that appear on erect stalks from late summer into fall and will grow up to 16 inches tall. The leaves are small, brown and scale-like. There are usually several tan or brown stems that grow up from a wooly base.

The flowers are arranged alternately along the stem.  The lower flowers are self-fertile, small and shaped similar to a bud. The upper flowers are typically sterile and have a tubular shape.  After blooming, they are replaced with a small seed capsule containing tiny seeds that can be blown by the wind.  

This plant will only grow at the base of beech trees and does not tolerate being separated. It is not suitable for flower gardens. Please enjoy it in its native habitat.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Its dependency on the American Beech does not allow this plant to be transplanted to another site.