Orobanche ramosa

phelipanche ramosa

Also known as: ["Orobanche ramosa","branched broomrape"]

Family: Orobanchaceae Genus: Phelipanche Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A parasitic herbaceous plant species in the family Orobanchaceae, known for its lack of chlorophyll and parasitic nature on the roots of various host plants.

Benefits & Perks

["rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Orobanchaceae
Genus: Phelipanche
Botanical Name: Phelipanche ramosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: near host plants in agricultural or disturbed areas
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: not required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Host plant-appropriate soil mix; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very low
  • Pruning Frequency: N/A
  • Pruning Intensity: N/A
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; 6–8 hours/day, adjusted for host plant needs.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to light changes; avoid direct sun to prevent host plant scorch; adjust indoor/outdoor placement based on host plant requirements.

Warning Signs: Host plant decline, lack of Phelipanche growth, or detachment from host roots.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
expert only

challenging

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Use shade cloth for intense light; monitor host plant’s light tolerance; rotate host plant for even light exposure.

Watering

rarely required, as it is a parasitic plant

Minimize direct watering; rely on host plant moisture; monitor host plant hydration.

Soil

not applicable, as it grows on host plant roots

pH: 6.0–7.0, matching host plant needs.

Ensure soil matches host plant needs; avoid compacted soil; maintain moisture balance.

Temperature

Moderate temperatures, 65–75°F (18–24°C); adjust based on host plant’s needs.

Monitor host plant’s temperature needs; use fans for airflow; avoid extreme fluctuations.

Fertilizing

not applicable, as it derives nutrients from host plants

Fertilize host plant monthly in growing season; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; dilute to half strength.

Propagation

Methods

Seed propagation or via root connections to host plants.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare host plant, place Phelipanche near host roots, maintain moisture, monitor attachment.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when host plants are actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions matching host plant needs.

Medium

Host plant soil, no separate medium needed.

Hormone

Not applicable; relies on natural parasitic connection.

Timeline

Several weeks for attachment; months for establishment.

Tools Needed

None specific; host plant care tools may be needed.

Quick Tips

Ensure close contact with host roots; maintain high humidity; patience is key.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

N/A

Pruning Plan

Not applicable; focus on host plant management.

Tools

N/A

Checklist

N/A

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring or early summer with host plant’s active growth.

Pot Size

One size up for host plant; ensure Phelipanche remains undisturbed.

Method

Carefully transfer host plant with attached Phelipanche; maintain soil contact.

Suggestions

Repot host plant as needed, ensuring Phelipanche remains attached.

Checklist

Host plant repotted, Phelipanche attached, Proper drainage ensured

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Host plant hydrated, Parasitic attachment visible, No direct watering to Phelipanche

How to Apply Water Properly

Water the host plant thoroughly, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting the Phelipanche directly, as it lacks true roots and absorbs nutrients parasitically.

Pro Tip: Focus watering on the host plant’s base to encourage parasitic attachment.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, as Phelipanche ramosa is a parasitic plant and derives most of its moisture from host plants. Avoid direct watering unless cultivating a host plant system.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; use organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Host plant wilting, bud drop, chlorosis, stunted Phelipanche growth.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow host plant metabolism, reducing nutrient uptake for Phelipanche.

Solution: Move host plant to warmer area; use grow lights if needed; insulate pots.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat causes host plant stress, leading to reduced Phelipanche vigor.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure host plant stays hydrated.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Host plant fertilized, Phelipanche not fertilized directly, Balanced formula used

Fertilizing Method

Fertilize the host plant with balanced, diluted fertilizer; avoid direct fertilization of Phelipanche.

Common Problems & Solutions

Phelipanche ramosa, a parasitic plant, can cause yellowing of leaves in its host plants due to nutrient depletion and vascular disruption as it taps into the host's xylem and phloem, leading to chlorosis.

Wilting is a common symptom in host plants affected by Phelipanche ramosa, as the parasite disrupts water and nutrient transport, causing dehydration and loss of turgor pressure in the host tissues.

Leaf spots are not a primary symptom caused by Phelipanche ramosa; however, secondary fungal or bacterial infections may manifest as spots due to the plant's weakened state.

Rotting may occur in host plants infested with Phelipanche ramosa, particularly in roots and stems, due to secondary infections facilitated by the parasite's damage to the host's vascular system.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Phelipanche ramosa is toxic to cats if ingested, leading to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity from the plant's chemical constituents.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Phelipanche ramosa can be toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects due to the plant's active compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Phelipanche ramosa, commonly known as broomrape, is a parasitic plant that can cause toxicity if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to adverse health effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Phelipanche ramosa toxic to humans or pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to humans or pets.

Q: How does Phelipanche ramosa grow?

A: It is a parasitic plant that grows by attaching its roots to the roots of host plants, lacking chlorophyll.

Q: Is Phelipanche ramosa considered a weed?

A: Yes, it is classified as a weed due to its parasitic nature and negative impact on host plants.

Quick Reference
Family: Orobanchaceae
Care: expert only
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: rarely required, as it is a pa
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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