Contents
Description
Orobanche Foetida, also known as Stinking Broomrape, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. This plant has no chlorophyll and depends on other plants for its survival. The plant produces a strong odor that resembles that of rotten eggs or garlic, which is why it is named Stinking Broomrape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Orobanche |
Appearance
The plant has a fleshy stem that grows up to 30 cm tall. The stem is covered with small scales and produces leaves that are reduced to small scales. The flowers are pink to purple and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Orobanche Foetida is a parasitic plant that does not require any care. However, if you want to grow this plant, you need to provide it with a host plant to feed on. The host plant should be a member of the Fabaceae family, such as clover, beans, or peas. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Orobanche Foetida is not affected by any pests or diseases, as it does not have any leaves to be attacked by pests or diseases. However, the host plant may be susceptible to pests and diseases.
Habitat
Orobanche Foetida is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and agricultural fields. It prefers dry and sandy soils and is often found in areas with low soil fertility.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Orobanche Foetida a poisonous plant?
A: No, Orobanche Foetida is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: How does Orobanche Foetida reproduce?
A: Orobanche Foetida reproduces by producing seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Q: Can Orobanche Foetida be grown indoors?
A: No, Orobanche Foetida cannot be grown indoors as it requires a host plant to survive.
Q: Is Orobanche Foetida an endangered species?
A: No, Orobanche Foetida is not considered an endangered species.
Related Plants
- Orobanche Crenata
- Orobanche Hederae
- Orobanche Rapum-genistae
- Orobanche Minor
References
- “Orobanche foetida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b551.
- “Orobanche foetida.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 16, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:812980-1.
- Stace, C.A. (2019). New Flora of the British Isles (Fourth edition). Cambridge University Press.
