(Answer)
This is a first! The fellow who submitted this photo emailed us back that he had been in touch with a plant expert, and found that this is an Conopholis americana, also called American cancer-root, squawroot or bear corn. It’s a very interesting plant, here’s some more information about it — also called the parasitic pinecone! Bruce Trail Conservancy – Squawroot. Thanks for reminding us about this terrific plant!