Contents
Description
Hyobanche Robusta, also known as the “dense-flowered broomrape,” is a parasitic plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Western Cape Province, growing on various host plants such as shrubs and trees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Hyobanche |
Appearance
Hyobanche Robusta is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 centimeters in height. It has a brownish-green stem with small, scale-like leaves. The flowers are densely clustered at the top of the stem and are pink, purple, or white in color. The petals of the flowers are fused together and form a tube-shaped corolla with five lobes.
Care Guide
Hyobanche Robusta is a parasitic plant that does not require soil, water, or fertilization. However, it does require a host plant to grow on. It prefers a sunny location and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
As a parasitic plant, Hyobanche Robusta does not typically suffer from pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal infections if the host plant is infected.
Habitat
Hyobanche Robusta is native to South Africa and is commonly found growing on various host plants in the Western Cape Province. It prefers a warm, sunny location and is commonly found in rocky areas or on disturbed soil.
Question and Answer
Q: What is a parasitic plant?
A: A parasitic plant is a plant that obtains its nutrients from a host plant.
Q: What are the common host plants for Hyobanche Robusta?
A: Hyobanche Robusta commonly grows on shrubs and trees.
Q: Can Hyobanche Robusta be grown in a pot?
A: No, Hyobanche Robusta cannot be grown in a pot as it requires a host plant to grow on.
Q: Is Hyobanche Robusta a threatened species?
A: Hyobanche Robusta is not currently listed as a threatened species.
Related Plants
- Hyobanche Sanguinea
- Hyobanche Glabrata
- Hyobanche Flanaganii
References
- “Hyobanche Robusta.” iNaturalist, www.inaturalist.org/taxa/128525-Hyobanche-robusta. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
- “Hyobanche Robusta.” South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.sanbi.org/creature/hyobanche-robusta/. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
- “Hyobanche Robusta.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/hyobancherob.htm. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
