Ivy Broomrape
orobanche hederae
Also known as: ["Ivy Broomrape"]
Overview
A parasitic flowering plant species that lacks chlorophyll and derives nutrients from the roots of ivy (Hedera).
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Orobanche |
| Botanical Name: | Orobanche hederae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: near host plants such as ivy (Hedera) in shaded, undisturbed soil
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining soil suitable for the host plant (e.g., cactus mix or succulent soil).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: Not applicable
- Pruning Intensity: Not applicable
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Host plant should receive bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Orobanche itself does not require sunlight as it is parasitic.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate host plant gradually to bright light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching; adjust indoor/outdoor placement based on host needs.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlychallenging
Sunlight
none, as it is a parasitic plant
Host plant thrives in bright indirect light; Orobanche avoids direct sun; adjust light based on season.
Watering
rarely required, only when soil is completely dry
Avoid direct watering of Orobanche; monitor host plant moisture levels; water only when necessary to prevent host dehydration.
Soil
not applicable, as it parasitizes roots of host plants
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0) for most host plants.
Use well-draining soil; avoid compacted soil; maintain proper pH.
Temperature
Host plant prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Orobanche tolerates the same range as its host.
Maintain stable temperatures; protect from drafts; adjust care based on host plant needs.
Fertilizing
not applicable, as it is a parasitic plant
Fertilize host every 4–6 weeks; use half-strength solution; avoid contact with Orobanche.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is the most common method for Orobanche, as it is a parasitic plant.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds near host plant roots.
- Maintain moisture.
- Monitor for germination.
- Ensure host remains healthy.
Best Time: Spring, when host plants are actively growing and temperatures are mild.
Environment
High humidity, warm temperatures, and indirect light near the host plant.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or sterile potting mix with host plant roots present.
Hormone
Not applicable, as Orobanche does not require rooting hormone.
Timeline
Germination can take several weeks to months; establishment depends on host plant health.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, sterile soil, host plant, humidity dome, watering can.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds; maintain consistent moisture; ensure host plant is nearby.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Not applicable
Pruning Plan
Orobanche does not require pruning. Focus on maintaining the health of the host plant.
Tools
Not applicable
Checklist
Not applicable
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the host plant is actively growing.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one size up or 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Carefully transfer host plant to a new pot with fresh soil, ensuring Orobanche remains attached to the roots.
Suggestions
Repot the host plant if necessary, ensuring Orobanche remains attached to the roots.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; handle roots gently; ensure Orobanche remains attached; water host after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check host plant moisture; water host deeply; avoid Orobanche direct contact with water; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the host plant thoroughly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, as Orobanche hederae is a parasitic plant and derives most of its moisture from its host. Only water if the host plant shows signs of drought stress.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, or bud drop in the host plant; Orobanche may detach if host is stressed.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow host growth, reducing Orobanche's ability to parasitize effectively.
Solution: Move host plant to a warmer location; use a heat mat if necessary; ensure minimal temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause host plant dehydration, leading to Orobanche detachment or death.
Solution: Provide shade for the host plant; increase humidity; water host more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize host only; use diluted solution; avoid Orobanche contact; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Fertilize the host plant lightly during growing season (spring/summer) with a balanced, diluted solution. Avoid fertilizing Orobanche directly.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicOrobanche hederae is toxic to cats due to its alkaloid content, which can cause significant health issues upon ingestion. The toxins affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicOrobanche hederae contains toxic alkaloids that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. The compounds may disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrobanche hederae is considered toxic due to the presence of various alkaloids that can cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal metabolic processes, leading to potential toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orobanche hederae toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Orobanche hederae obtain nutrients?
A: It is a parasitic plant that derives nutrients from the roots of ivy (Hedera).
Q: Is Orobanche hederae suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is highly specialized and requires expert care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | none, as it is a parasitic pla |
| Water: | rarely required, only when soi |
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