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Description
Cynomoriaceae is a family of parasitic plants that grow in arid regions. They are root parasites that attach themselves to the roots of host plants to obtain nutrients. The family consists of only one genus, Cynomorium, which contains approximately 15 species. They are known by various common names, including desert thumb, Maltese fungus, and Moroccan wormwood.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Cynomoriaceae |
| Genus | Cynomorium |
Appearance
Cynomoriaceae plants are herbaceous perennials that lack chlorophyll and have no leaves or stems. They grow from a woody, branched, and fleshy rhizome that is dark brown to black in color. The rhizome produces a solitary, unbranched, and erect inflorescence that can grow up to 50 cm in height. The inflorescence is cylindrical, with a diameter of 2-4 cm, and is composed of numerous small flowers that are brownish-red to purple in color. The flowers are unisexual, with male and female flowers borne on separate plants.
Care Guide
Cynomoriaceae plants are difficult to cultivate and are not commonly grown in gardens or homes. They require a host plant to survive, and their care is primarily focused on maintaining the health of the host plant. If you do have a host plant for Cynomoriaceae, here are some care tips:- Water: Water the host plant regularly to keep it healthy and hydrated.- Fertilization: Fertilize the host plant with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth.- Soil: Cynomoriaceae plants do not require soil as they are parasites that obtain nutrients from the host plant.- Sunlight: Provide the host plant with adequate sunlight according to its requirements.- Hardiness Zones: Cynomoriaceae plants are hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cynomoriaceae plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases as they are parasitic and do not have many natural predators. However, the health of their host plant can be affected by various pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: Aphids can infest the host plant and suck its sap, causing stunted growth and deformities.- Spider mites: Spider mites can also infest the host plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.- Root rot: Overwatering the host plant can cause root rot, which can be fatal to both the host plant and the Cynomoriaceae plant.
Habitat
Cynomoriaceae plants are native to arid regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. They grow in desert and semi-desert habitats, where they attach themselves to the roots of various species of host plants, including tamarisks, wormwoods, and saltbushes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cynomoriaceae plants grow without a host plant?
A: No, Cynomoriaceae plants are parasitic and require a host plant to survive.
Q: How do I know if my host plant is suitable for Cynomoriaceae?
A: Cynomoriaceae plants have a limited range of host plants, which include tamarisks, wormwoods, and saltbushes. Check whether your host plant belongs to one of these families before attempting to grow Cynomoriaceae.
Q: Are Cynomoriaceae plants endangered?
A: Some species of Cynomoriaceae are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and overharvesting for medicinal purposes.
Q: Can I grow Cynomoriaceae plants indoors?
A: No, Cynomoriaceae plants require a host plant and are not suitable for indoor cultivation.
Related Plants
– Balanophoraceae- Hydnoraceae- Rafflesiaceae- Triuridaceae
References
– “Cynomoriaceae.” Flora of North America. efloras.org.- “Cynomoriaceae.” The Plant List. theplantlist.org.- “Cynomorium.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. kew.org.
