Western broomrape
orobanche rapum-genistae
Also known as: ["Broomrape","Western broomrape"]
Overview
A parasitic herbaceous plant that lacks chlorophyll and derives nutrients from host plants, particularly members of the Fabaceae family.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Orobanche |
| Botanical Name: | Orobanche rapum-genistae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: attached to host plant roots in natural habitat, or greenhouse setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy soil near host plant root zones.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: N/A
- Pruning Intensity: N/A
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Host plant should receive full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight), depending on the host species.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate host plants gradually to sunlight changes; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; monitor for signs of scorching on host leaves.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
partial shade
Use shade cloth if needed; rotate host plant for even light exposure; monitor light intensity changes.
Watering
rarely required, only when soil is completely dry
Water only when the host plant requires it; ensure host plant soil is well-drained; avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and well-aerated; avoid compacted soil near host roots; monitor soil moisture levels.
Temperature
Host plant ideal range: 15–25°C (59–77°F). Orobanche thrives in the same range as its host.
Monitor host plant health; adjust microclimate as needed; protect from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
not required
Fertilize host plant in spring; avoid over-fertilization; use organic options for better host health.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation, as Orobanche does not have traditional vegetative propagation methods.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds near host plant roots.
- Maintain soil moisture.
- Monitor for germination signs.
- Protect from direct sunlight.
Best Time: Spring, when host plants are actively growing and soil temperatures are rising.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions near the host plant; partial shade to mimic natural habitat.
Medium
Sterile, sandy soil mixed with fine organic matter, near the host plant's root zone.
Hormone
Not applicable, as Orobanche is a parasitic plant.
Timeline
Germination can take several weeks to months, depending on environmental conditions and host proximity.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile soil, water spray bottle, host plant identification markers.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in close proximity to host roots; maintain consistent moisture; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
N/A
Pruning Plan
Not applicable, as Orobanche is a parasitic plant without traditional pruning needs.
Tools
N/A
Checklist
N/A
Repotting Guide
Best Season
N/A
Pot Size
N/A
Method
N/A
Suggestions
Not applicable, as Orobanche grows in the wild and is not typically cultivated in pots.
Checklist
N/A
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check host plant moisture levels; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the host plant at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, as Orobanche is a parasitic plant and relies on host plants for moisture. Avoid direct watering unless cultivating the host plant.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter near host roots for better host health.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Host plant wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth; Orobanche failure to emerge or develop.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can inhibit Orobanche germination and host plant growth, reducing parasitic success.
Solution: Use row covers or greenhouses to protect host plants; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent cold-induced root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can stress the host plant, reducing its vigor and making it less suitable for Orobanche.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; ensure consistent moisture for the host plant; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check host plant nutrient needs; apply fertilizer at half-strength; avoid contact with Orobanche.
Fertilizing Method
Fertilize the host plant sparingly with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer during active growth. Avoid fertilizing Orobanche directly.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Orobanche rapum-genistae if they consume any part of the plant. The toxic compounds can cause significant gastrointestinal and systemic issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Orobanche rapum-genistae by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrobanche rapum-genistae is a parasitic plant species that can cause toxicity when ingested. The plant contains compounds that can disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to adverse health effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orobanche rapum-genistae toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Orobanche rapum-genistae obtain nutrients?
A: It is a parasitic plant that attaches to the roots of host plants to derive nutrients.
Q: Can Orobanche rapum-genistae be grown in a home garden?
A: It is challenging to cultivate outside of controlled or specialized environments due to its parasitic nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | rarely required, only when soi |
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