Contents
Description
Phelipaea, commonly known as beechdrops, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found growing on the roots of beech trees, hence its common name. The plant is unique in that it lacks chlorophyll and cannot produce its food. Instead, it relies on the beech tree for nutrients.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Phelipaea |
Appearance
Phelipaea has a thin stem that can grow up to 30 centimeters tall. Its leaves are tiny, scale-like structures that grow opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are reddish-brown in color. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Phelipaea is a parasitic plant and does not require care. It relies on the beech tree for its nutrients and does not need water, fertilization, or sunlight to survive. It grows in hardiness zones 4-8 and prefers to grow in well-draining soil.
Common Pests & Diseases
Because Phelipaea is a parasitic plant, it is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the health of the beech tree it grows on. If the beech tree is unhealthy or diseased, it can affect the growth of Phelipaea.
Habitat
Phelipaea is native to North America and is commonly found growing on the roots of beech trees in deciduous forests. It can also be found growing on the roots of other tree species, such as oak and maple.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phelipaea a flowering plant?
A: Yes, Phelipaea produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are reddish-brown in color.
Q: Does Phelipaea require care?
A: No, Phelipaea is a parasitic plant and does not require care. It relies on the beech tree for its nutrients.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Phelipaea?
A: Phelipaea grows in hardiness zones 4-8.
Q: What is the habitat of Phelipaea?
A: Phelipaea is native to North America and is commonly found growing on the roots of beech trees in deciduous forests.
Related Plants
- Orobanche
- Aphyllon
- Cistanche
- Epifagus
References
- Flora of North America: Phelipaea
- USDA Plants Database: Phelipaea
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Phelipaea
