Beechdrops Info
Beechdrop wildflowers (Epifagus americana and Epifagus virginiana) consist of brownish stems and spiky clusters of small, cream colored, tube-shaped flowers with prominent maroon or brown markings. Beechdrop plants bloom in late summer and autumn, and by late autumn, they turn brown and die. Although beechdrops reach heights of 5 to 18 inches (13-46 cm.), you may walk past a plant without noticing it because the colors of the chlorophyll-less plants are so dull. Beechdrop plants are root parasites; they lack chlorophyll and possess only small, flat scales in place of leaves so they have no way to photosynthesize. The only way this oddly attractive little plant can survive is by the generosity of the beech tree. Beechdrops are equipped with small root-like structures that insert into the beech root, thus drawing out just enough nutrition to sustain the plant. Since beechdrop plants are short-lived, they don’t damage the beech tree. Plant historians believe that Native Americans brewed dried beechdrop plants to make a bitter, pungent tea which they used to treat mouth sores, diarrhea, and dysentery. In spite of this past use, it is unadvisable to use these plants today. In fact, if you notice this strange little plant, don’t pick it. Although it may seem inconsequential, beech plant wildflowers are an important part of the ecosystem. In some areas, the plant is relatively rare. That doesn’t mean you cannot still enjoy them. Should you take a stroll in the woods near beech trees and happen across this interesting plant, have your camera handy and snap a photo. It makes a great teaching tool for kids as well when learning about photosynthesis or parasitic plants.
