Pinedrop
Introduction
Pterospora andromedea commonly known as Pinedrops, is a parasitic plant of the heath family. This plant relies on mycoheterotrophy, the plant nutrition tactic that involves getting its carbon and other nutrients from fungi rather than photosynthesis. They have a red stalk with bell-shaped flowers.
Range & Habitat
Pinedrops are native to coniferous forests of North America commonly growing from the soil below pine trees. Populations can be found in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, though it is most commonly found in mountainous regions like the northern Appalachians or Rockies. Pinedrop grows well in acidic, well-drained soils that are nutrient-poor. They also need coniferous forests with ectmycrorhizal growth, which they rely on for nutrients. Pinedrops are more likely to be found in older forests with less disterbnces because these conditions promote the growth of the fungi systems they prey on.