The Arctic Rush

As its name suggests, this plant species is found in mild climates in the Northern Hemisphere, but also in the Arctic and in the Alps!
It can be recognised by the total absence of leaves and the sparse, blackish flowers in the upper third of the stem.
It is a protected species in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is prohibited to pick or otherwise harm this species.
It is particularly characteristic of certain alpine environments such as meadows and river banks.