What is the common name for the plant Neottia?

The plant Neottia is commonly known as the Bird's nest plant. This designation arises from its growth habit and the way the plants often appear on the forest floor, where their fleshy, brownish, and non-photosynthetic stems resemble a nest due to their lack of green foliage. This unique adaptation allows them to rely on a symbiotic relationship with fungi in the soil to obtain nutrients, rather than photosynthesis.

In contrast to the Bird's nest plant, the other options refer to different species. Lady's slipper refers to orchids in the genus Cypripedium, which are noted for their distinctive pouch-like flowers. The Monkey orchid, or Dracula simia, is so named due to the unique facial features that the flowers are said to resemble. The Ghost orchid (Dendrophylax lindenii) is famed for its elusive nature and striking flower structure, which appears to float in the air when in bloom. Therefore, the correct identification of Neottia as the Bird's nest plant stems from its particular characteristics and ecological adaptations.