Squawroot

(Conopholis americana)

Squawroot (Conopholis americana Wallr. f.)

Identification: Parasitic on the roots of trees, particularly oaks, without chlorophyll. Plant a series of thick, fleshy, scaly, yellow-brown spikes studded with yellowish white flowers. Flowers cylindrical with a large, concave, dorsal hood and a downward bent lower lip. Stem yellow-white with a series of yellow-brown scales. Plant 3 to 8 inches in height.

Distribution: Wisconsin in the west to Nova Scotia in the east, southward to Florida and Mississippi.

Habitat: Squawroot is found in woodlands, particularly dry woods dominated by oaks.

Flowering period: May to June.

Similar Species: This distinctive, parasitic species is unlikely to be confused with anything else.