Monotropsis

Monotropsis odorata

Vulnerable  (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Asterids
Order: Ericales
Family: Ericaceae
Subfamily: Monotropoideae
Genus: Monotropsis
Species: M. odorata
Binomial name
Monotropsis odorata
Schwein. ex Elliot

Monotropsis is a monotypic genus of plants containing the single species Monotropsis odorata, also known as sweet pinesap or pygmy pipes. It is a member of the subfamily Monotropoideae of the heath family, Ericaceae. It is native to the Appalachian Mountains in the south-eastern United States, and is viewed as being uncommon throughout its range.

Like all members of the subfamily, Monotropsis odorata does not contain chlorophyll; it is a myco-heterotroph, getting its food through parasitism upon fungi rather than photosynthesis. These fungi form a mycorrhiza with nearby tree species.

M. oderata has a sweet smell which has been likened to nutmeg, cinnamon or violets.

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References


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