23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
The ghost of the forest - Indian Ghost Pipes

The Indian Ghost Pipe (Monotropa uniflora), a delicate and enigmatic plant, holds a special place in folklore and traditional medicine, yet it is often overlooked in modern times. Unlike most plants, it does not perform photosynthesis, instead obtaining nutrients through a symbiotic relationship with fungi. These plants can still be found in shaded forests, quietly emerging from the leaf litter, a reminder of nature’s hidden wonders and cultural heritage.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Harvard, Massachusetts, United States of America
Camera: Galaxy S23 Ultra
Copyright: © Corina Simian