Corallorhiza maculata is a myco-heterotroph; meaning that it lacks chlorophyll and obtains energy by parasitizing the mycelium of fungi in the family Russulaceae. The rhizome and lower stem are often knotted into branched coral shapes, giving it its name.
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We have these in BC too. According to local foragers, they are edible.
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Wuuuut?!? It parasitizes mushies?
That’s craaazy!!!
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Not to mention that the family of fungi they parasitize for nutrients is very interesting! Several highly prized edible species, though it is broad so hard to say exactly what mycelium it’s munching :) https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russulaceae
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