Sugarstick
Allotropa virgata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–16" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sugarstick is a unique saprophytic plant that produces striking white stems with red candy cane stripes, emerging from forest duff without leaves. This parasitic plant derives nutrients from mycorrhizal fungi rather than photosynthesis, creating an unusual and eye-catching display in summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sugarstick takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely unusual appearance may confuse neighbors
- Difficult to establish and maintain reliably
- Appears dead most of the year with no foliage
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and flies, though the plant's specialized growing requirements limit its wildlife support compared to typical flowering perennials.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Sugarstick fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.