Beech drops (Epifagus virginiana)

Beech drops

Beech drops (Epifagus virginiana) is native to North America and is a parasitic plant. It clings to maple trees and gets its nutrients from them, as it does not have chlorophyll. The flower stalks on this plant always last during winter months.

Scientific classification

Species

Beech drops (Epifagus virginiana)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

10 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

Purple, Brown, Lavender

Leaf Color

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Beech drops

Distribution of Beech drops

Distribution Map

Beech drops is natively found in the eastern regions of North America. More specifically, its presence is within parts of the continent's temperate deciduous forest biome. Beech drops has not been widely introduced outside its native range and is primarily local to its indigenous environment, with no significant reported introduction in other major regions or continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, under beech trees

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Beech drops

Copper-purple flowers on upright stalks up to 16 inches (40.6 cm) tall.

Scale-like leaves lacking green pigments, measuring 2-4 mm in length.

Dry achene fruit with smooth, brown or tan exterior, less than 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long.

Stems stiff to ascending, tan to brown with purple or yellow-brown hues.

Tubular flowers in white, brownish, or purple, 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm) long.

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Care Guide for Beech drops

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Beech drops thrives in moderately humid environments with consistent soil moisture and prefers weekly watering. As a parasitic plant, it extracts water and nutrients from tree roots, leading to minimal independent water needs, reflecting its adaptation to the forest understory of North America.

Fertilize: Beech drops relies on host tree roots for nutrients, making fertilization unnecessary. Focus on maintaining the health of the host tree, typically during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can harm both the host and beech drops.

Pruning: Beech drops requires minimal pruning due to its parasitic nature on beech roots. Light pruning in early to late spring can enhance health, while heavy pruning should be avoided. Cut back during dormancy and use clean tools to prevent infections.

Propagation: Beech drops is a parasitic plant that relies on host beech trees for growth. Its seeds need to be sown near the roots to germinate successfully. For best results, the substrate should resemble organic forest litter, typical of beech drops's natural habitat.

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Images of Beech drops

Distribution of Beech drops

Quickly Identify Beech drops

Care Guide for Beech drops

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