Species › Plants › Beechdrops

Beechdrops

Epifagus virginiana

UncommonPlant
Illustration of Beechdrops (Epifagus virginiana)

Beechdrops are leafless, parasitic plants that grow on the roots of beech trees. They produce small, tubular flowers that range from white to purple. These plants are fascinating for their complete dependency on their host.

Habitat
Found in beech forests, directly on the roots of beech trees.
Diet
Dependent on beech trees for nutrition, lacking chlorophyll for photosynthesis.
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Beechdrops

The best time to see a Beechdrops is August–October, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 15,823 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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