Found an entire hillside of this plant medicine yesterday. It is such an honor to find too. Natives tell beautiful stories about them.
They are Indian pipes aka ghost pipes.
They are a parasitic plant that doesn't produce any chlorophyll and does not depend on light for photosynthesis. They live off of tree root sap and myccorhizal fungus. They have been pollinated once their heads are facing up. Can be found all over the US (amd some other countries), but is not found in the Rocky Mountain range.
Harvested some last year, but must be dine respectfully and must follow proper steps to preserve or you plant medicine will not be potent.
I've never seen so many in all my life. I knew you'd appreciate this post.
Once added to 100 proof alcohol, they turn black and the liquid is a dark indigo.