Caryophyllaceous Broomrape
orobanche caryophyllacea
Also known as: ["Caryophyllaceous Broomrape","Orobanche caryophyllacea"]
Overview
A parasitic herbaceous plant lacking chlorophyll, relying on host plants for nutrients.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Orobanche |
| Botanical Name: | Orobanche caryophyllacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy soil with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead stems are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on seasonal changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sunlight, provide bright indirect light, rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
rarely required, only when soil is completely dry
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water only when soil is dry; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage, avoid waterlogged soil, use sandy mix.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (15–25°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid extreme cold, protect from frost, maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
not required
Dilute fertilizer to half strength, fertilize only during active growth, stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the most common method; stem cuttings can also be attempted but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly, keep moist.
- For cuttings, take a healthy stem, apply rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate; cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining mix, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Maintain high humidity, use well-draining medium, be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged stems at the base; avoid excessive pruning to preserve energy reserves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead stems, use clean tools, prune sparingly, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil degrades; infrequent repotting is preferred.
Checklist
Check root-bound status, use fresh soil, ensure drainage, minimal root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness, water sparingly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring the soil is moistened but not waterlogged; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry; reduce watering significantly during dormancy or cold periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; maintain consistent temperatures above 10°C.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently if soil dries out quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize during growing season, avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrobanche caryophyllacea is toxic to cats, with the entire plant containing compounds that can cause significant health issues upon ingestion. These substances can lead to gastrointestinal distress and other systemic reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe entire plant of Orobanche caryophyllacea is toxic to dogs. The alkaloids and other compounds present can cause gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrobanche caryophyllacea is considered toxic due to the presence of various alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that can cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds can disrupt normal cellular functions and lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orobanche caryophyllacea toxic to humans?
A: Its toxicity is unknown due to limited research.
Q: How does Orobanche caryophyllacea grow without chlorophyll?
A: It is a parasitic plant that derives nutrients from host plants.
Q: Is Orobanche caryophyllacea suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is challenging to cultivate and requires expert care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | rarely required, only when soi |
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