American Cancer-Root - Conopholis americana (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

American Cancer-Root

Also known as: Bear Corn

American Cancer-Root (*Conopholis americana*) is a parasitic plant that only attaches itself to the roots of certain oak species. It grows in shady parts of forests. Its height range is 5 to 20 cm tall. Its common name references the fact that it is a “cancer” on other plants.

Scientific classification

Species

American Cancer-Root (Conopholis americana)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

5 cm to 20 cm

Plant Height

1.5 cm to 2.5 cm

Spread

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, White, Cream, Orange

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of American Cancer-Root

Quickly Identify American Cancer-Root

Creamy, hairless flowers in dense, upright spike resembling conifer cones.

Ovate, yellow-tan scales resembling leaves, measuring about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long.

Thick, unbranched stem with rough texture, 1/2 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter.

Elongated seed capsule longer than wide, containing numerous small seeds.

Parasitic perennial, 3 to 8 inches (7.5 to 20 cm) tall with singular, woody stem.

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Care Guide for American Cancer-Root

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to North America's deciduous forests, american Cancer-Root thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil. Watering once a week is crucial. As an obligate parasite, it extracts moisture and nutrients from host trees, benefiting from natural rainfall and synchronizing with seasonal water availability.

Fertilize: Fertilizing american Cancer-Root involves using balanced nutrition fertilizers during active growth in spring and fall, tailored to american Cancer-Root's size and soil fertility. This boosts vitality and flowering. Fertilization should be reduced or halted during dormancy, and care must be taken to avoid over-fertilization.

Pruning: American Cancer-Root is a parasitic plant with cone-like flowers. Prune in early to late spring to improve health and vigor, removing dead or diseased parts. Careful pruning is essential to avoid harming host plants, supporting controlled growth and vitality.

Propagation: American Cancer-Root propagation is best accomplished during Spring and Summer using cuttings, though it may be moderately challenging. New growth indicates success, and maintaining moisture and warmth is essential for optimal results.

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Images of American Cancer-Root

Quickly Identify American Cancer-Root

Care Guide for American Cancer-Root

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