Epifagus virginiana

Common Names

Beechdrops, Beech Drops, Beech-Drops, Beechdrop

Summary

Beechdrops is a native, chlorophyll-free parasitic herb in the Orobanchaceae that grows on beech roots in eastern North American forests. It lacks photosynthesis and relies entirely on host beech roots for nutrients, forming slender stems 4–50 cm tall with brown to purple-tinged coloration and scale-like leaves; flowers occur in two forms—lower cleistogamous, self-fertile blooms and upper chasmogamous, usually fertile blooms with tubular white flowers striped purple or brown; fruits are capsules containing many tiny wind-dispersed seeds, and dried stalks persist through winter.

It is an obligate parasite, cannot be transplanted or cultivated in gardens, and seed germination is triggered by chemicals released by beech roots, restricting it to beech stands in eastern North America. It serves as a forest-health indicator, tolerates a range of soils with good drainage, and grows best in moderate light within undisturbed beech woodlands; practical considerations include leaving habitat intact rather than attempting relocation or cultivation.

Lifecycle

Annual

Height

4-18 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3a-11a

Sunlight Requirements

Partial Shade, Partial Sun, or Full Sun.

Soil Type

Moist, slightly acidic loamy soil with good drainage

Soil Drainage

Loamy soil with good drainage.

Soil pH

5.5-8.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White to Purple

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

No foliage

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color; chlorophyll-lacking; leaves are scales instead of true leaves.

Growth Rate

Slow; several years to mature (tuber development)

Seasons of Interest

Summer and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts woodland ants