One-flowered Broomrape

One-flowered Broomrape is a remarkable non-photosynthetic parasitic plant that entirely lacks chlorophyll, instead drawing all its nutrients from the roots of host plants in the genera Sedum, Saxifraga, and relatives. Each pale stalk bears a single lavender to white flower that emerges directly from the soil in spring. It is widespread across North America but rarely seen due to its small size and cryptic appearance. Its flowers are visited by small bees. It represents one of nature's most specialized ecological relationships.