Scaldweed (Cuscuta gronovii)

Scaldweed

Also known as: Common dodder

Growing mostly in temperate forest habitats, this parasitic plant grows throughout all of North America and has been naturalized in several European countries. The common hosts of scaldweed are spotted touch-me-not, false nettle, wood nettle, square-stemmed monkeyflower, and ditch stonecrop. Scaldweed has normal roots, but the suckers penetrate into a host and take its nutrients.

Scientific classification

Species

Scaldweed (Cuscuta gronovii)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb, Vine

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

91 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Images of Scaldweed

Distribution of Scaldweed

Distribution Map

Scaldweed is a parasitic plant native to North America. Over time, it has been introduced and now persists across various regions of Europe. As an adaptable species, it successfully infiltrates diversely temperate environments, lending to its expansive non-native presence.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shaded and wet areas, river bottoms, parasitic on shrubs and herbs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Love, Divination, Knot magic

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Care Guide for Scaldweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Originating from wetland margins, scaldweed thrives in moist environments, preferring consistent moisture but can adapt to drier conditions. Watering weekly is essential. As an obligate parasitic plant, scaldweed extracts nutrients from host plants, relying on their availability affected by seasonal rainfall.

Fertilize: To enhance scaldweed's growth, apply balanced NPK fertilizers quarterly during active growth. Use sparingly to avoid harming its sensitivity. Adjust dosages for seasonal changes, reducing during dormancy. Dilute to prevent root burn, ensuring scaldweed flourishes and improves host interactions.

Pruning: Scaldweed is a parasitic plant with twining stems and no chlorophyll. Prune it in early to late spring to manage its growth and prevent spreading. Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and minimizes the risk to host plants. Use clean tools to avoid disease.

Propagation: Scaldweed is a parasitic plant that propagates through abundant seeds that attach to host plants. For cultivation, seeds must be sown directly on potential hosts. Careful handling is essential to avoid unwanted spread, given its aggressive growth and potential harm to host plants.

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Learn More About Scaldweed

Sunlight Requirements

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

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