This uncommon plant has no chlorophyll so doesn't make its own food the way other plants do.  Indian Pipe is a saprophyte, meaning it feeds off of decaying organic matter similar to the way mushrooms obtain their food.  The plant is fragile, turning black when picked or bruised.  Because of their pale white color, virtually leafless stalk, and nodding flowers this plant is easy to identify, but there are some look-alikes.  Indian Pipe grows mostly in damp woods, but are local in range.  Blooms June-Sept.