Spotted Coralroot (Corallorhiza maculata), one of the few orchids that we have here in Southern Colorado, USA
Spotted Coralroot (Corallorhiza maculata), one of the few orchids that we have here in Southern Colorado, USA
Corallorhiza maculata is a myco-heterotroph; meaning that it lacks chlorophyll and obtains energy by parasitizing the mycelium of fungi in the family Russulaceae. The rhizome and lower stem are often knotted into branched coral shapes, giving it its name.
We have these in BC too. According to local foragers, they are edible.
I'd feel awful picking these gorgeous guys! I see on Wikipedia that it mentions their use as an traditional herbal cold and pneumonia remedy as well, fascinating little flowers I think!
Wuuuut?!? It parasitizes mushies?
That's craaazy!!!
Not to mention that the family of fungi they parasitize for nutrients is very interesting! Several highly prized edible species, though it is broad so hard to say exactly what mycelium it's munching :) https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russulaceae