What is this red plant that looks like asparagus?

I found this in numerous places in our garden. Is it poisonous? Is it rare?

This fun plant in the photo is called Pterospora andromedea, or Pinedrops. It is a parasitic plant that feeds off the roots of pine trees. Not that uncommon in central Oregon and other western states.

Want to learn more about this topic? Explore more resources from OSU Extension: Weeds

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