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Description
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens, also known as the American Dodder, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to North America, where it can be found growing on a wide range of host plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. The plant has thin, twining stems that can grow up to 2 meters long and small, white or yellowish flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Cuscuta |
Appearance
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens has thin, yellowish or reddish, twining stems that can grow up to 2 meters long. The stems lack chlorophyll and rely on the host plant for nutrients. The leaves are reduced to small, scale-like structures and the flowers are small, white, or yellowish, and arranged in clusters. The plant produces small, round, white seeds that can be dispersed by wind or water.
Care Guide
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is a parasitic plant and does not require care like other plants. It relies on the host plant for nutrients and water. However, it is important to note that the plant can harm the host plant, so it is not recommended to encourage its growth.
Water
Since Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens relies on the host plant for water, it does not need to be watered separately.
Fertilization
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens does not need to be fertilized separately since it obtains its nutrients from the host plant.
Soil
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens does not grow in soil since it is a parasitic plant that relies on the host plant.
Sunlight
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens grows in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is not known to be affected by any pests or diseases.
Habitat
Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is native to North America and can be found growing on a wide range of host plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens harmful to the host plant?
A: Yes, Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is a parasitic plant that can harm the host plant by competing for nutrients and water.
Q: How does Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens obtain its nutrients?
A: Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens obtains its nutrients from the host plant.
Q: Is Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens an endangered species?
A: No, Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is not an endangered species.
Q: Can Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens be grown in a garden?
A: Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens is not recommended for growing in a garden since it is a parasitic plant that can harm the host plant.
Related Plants
- Cuscuta Campestris
- Cuscuta Epithymum
- Cuscuta Europaea
- Cuscuta Gronovii
References
- “Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278199.
- “Cuscuta Scandens Subsp. Scandens.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CUSCS.
- “American Dodder.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/am_dodder.htm.
