Alpine Cancer-root
Conopholis alpina mexicana
Observed in the ponderosa forest in Reynolds Canyon, Sierra Ancha, Gila Co., Arizona, USA. June 2011.
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FLOWERS: The white flowers are clustered on yellowish-brown, fleshy spikes that emerges straight from the leaf litter on the forest floor.
LEAVES: No leaves at all save for short brownish scales.
PERENNIAL: The flowering spike is all that appears above ground. The below-ground root system is parasitic on other plants and persists for several years.
RANGE: Found in isolated montane forests in the southwestern United
States where oaks are present.
FRUIT: The many seeds develop in capsules on the spike as it dries.
UNARMED.
Orobanchaceae -- Broom-rape Family
More Information:
- Southwest Environmental Information Network
- Gila Wilderness Plants
- USDA Plant Profile
- Google Images
- Google Scholar Literature Search