Looks more like Monotropa hypopitys (Ericaceae)to me. It's a mycoheterotroph (parasitises mycorrhizal fungi) rather than a parasite on plant roots like Toothwort. The photo posted by Edd looks the same (also Monotropa). I'd have thought it would be common enough in France.
There's a picture of emerging Toothwort here - looks quite different.
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It is Lathraea squamaria, I'm sure of it. This is some from my local wood.
Thanks Landgirl - I'll pass that on
Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.
Looks more like Monotropa hypopitys (Ericaceae)to me. It's a mycoheterotroph (parasitises mycorrhizal fungi) rather than a parasite on plant roots like Toothwort. The photo posted by Edd looks the same (also Monotropa). I'd have thought it would be common enough in France.
There's a picture of emerging Toothwort here - looks quite different.
Onopordum, Ian says you've got it
He's done some googling of French sites using your information and it looks as if that's the one - fascinating.
Ian has asked me to pass on his thanks to everyone
Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.
I agree, on looking again it is Yellow Bird's Nest. Although it does grow in Britain, I've never seen it.