Crested Broomrape
orobanche crenata
Also known as: ["Crested Broomrape"]
Overview
A parasitic herbaceous plant lacking chlorophyll, typically found attached to the roots of host plants.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Orobanche |
| Botanical Name: | Orobanche crenata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open ground in arid or semi-arid regions
- 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: Sandy, well-draining soil with low organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when stems become leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
very rarely, only when soil is completely dry
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-drained, sandy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–8.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (20–30°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care seasonally.
Fertilizing
not required
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help for cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to encourage airflow and new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; improve airflow; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 2–3 years; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and soil; water plant a day before repotting; handle roots carefully; place in shade post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; use limestone to raise pH if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in growing season (spring/summer), none in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Orobanche crenata upon ingestion, which can result in gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Orobanche crenata by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects due to its toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOrobanche crenata is known to contain toxic compounds that can cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant lacks chlorophyll and derives nutrients from host plants, which may contribute to its toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orobanche crenata edible?
A: No, it is not edible and is considered a parasitic weed.
Q: How does Orobanche crenata reproduce?
A: It reproduces via seeds, which germinate only in the presence of a host plant's roots.
Q: What are the ecological roles of Orobanche crenata?
A: It parasitizes host plants, potentially reducing their growth and yield, but may also support specialized pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | very rarely, only when soil is |
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