Epifagus virginiana - Beechdrops

This is an annual parasitic plant that receives it's nutritution from the roots of beech trees. This plant has two types of flowers: chasmogamous (perfect) flowers which are located near the top of of the plant but are usually sterile. The cleistogamous (self fertile) flowers are located near the base of the plant. Both types of flowers are shown in the photos below.

Click on thumbnails for large photos.