Greater dodder (Cuscuta europaea)

Greater dodder

Also known as: Large dodder, Scaldweed

Greater dodder (Cuscuta europaea) is a parasitic plant with reddish stems and globular clusters of pink flowers. It cannot survive without a host plant, leading to its classification as a pest among farmers in many regions. Its small leaves lack chlorophyll and are thus not green, which may cause them to be easily missed. This lack of chlorophyll is what renders it dependent on a host.

Scientific classification

Species

Greater dodder (Cuscuta europaea)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

1 m

Plant Height

Yellow, Pink

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Greater dodder

Distribution of Greater dodder

Distribution Map

Greater dodder is originally native to a broad region encompassing parts of Europe, central Asia, and the Mediterranean. Its native range extends to areas of temperate Asia. Greater dodder has been introduced to regions like parts of northern Europe, northern Africa, East Asia, and Australasia. Despite its spread, it is not commonly reported as cultivated.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Greater dodder

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Greater dodder thrives in moderate water conditions and requires weekly watering. As a deciduous plant, it sheds leaves annually to conserve water during drier seasons, reflecting its adaptation to a habitat with balanced humidity.

Fertilize: Greater dodder is a parasitic plant relying on its host for nutrients, making traditional fertilization unnecessary. Enhance the host with balanced fertilizers to support greater dodder, but fertilize sparingly to prevent overgrowth. Adjust fertilization based on seasonal changes and host growth stages for optimal health.

Pruning: Greater dodder, a parasitic plant, requires pruning in early to late spring. Regularly cut back infested host plants and remove visible greater dodder stems to manage its spread. Proper disposal of pruned material prevents re-infestation, promoting healthier ecosystems. Always use sanitized tools to avoid disease transmission.

Propagation: Greater dodder is a parasitic plant that propagates mainly through seeds, requiring nearby host plants for germination. It attaches via haustoria for nutrient uptake. Effective cultivation involves managing seed distribution to prevent aggressive growth that may overwhelm other plants, highlighting its parasitic implications.

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Learn More About Greater dodder

Sunlight Requirements

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

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