Salt marsh dodder (Cuscuta salina)

Salt marsh dodder

Also known as: Goldenthread

Salt marsh dodder is a parasitic plant. It wraps its orange stems around the nearest host plant and absorbs its nutrients to survive. Though it eventually kills its host plant, this slender vine provides an abundance of food for pollinators and small mammals and birds. Salt marsh dodder was named for its ability to thrive in salty marshes.

Scientific classification

Species

Salt marsh dodder (Cuscuta salina)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 1 m

Spread

White

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Salt marsh dodder

Distribution of Salt marsh dodder

Distribution Map

Salt marsh dodder is a parasitic plant primarily native to coastal and interior wetland regions of western North America. Over time, the plant's range has expanded, though it remains predominantly found within its original habitat zones on this continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal interdune depressions, parasitic on herbs

Culture

Symbolism

Love, Divination, Knot magic

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Care Guide for Salt marsh dodder

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Salt marsh dodder thrives in high salinity environments, such as salt marshes, and is humidity-loving with drought tolerance. Water it weekly, replicating outdoor conditions in containers or gardens to ensure adequate moisture during the growing season.

Fertilize: Salt marsh dodder thrives with a balanced nutrition fertilizer, applied sparingly to avoid harming it. Fertilization supports its host plants during active growth, enhancing salt marsh dodder's vigor. Apply to host plants only, following label rates to prevent over-fertilization and damage.

Pruning: Salt marsh dodder is a parasitic plant characterized by thin stems. Prune salt marsh dodder in early to late spring to control its spread, trimming infested host parts and removing visible strands. Proper disposal of pruned material is essential to prevent reinfestation. Consult local guidelines for specific techniques.

Propagation: Salt marsh dodder is a parasitic plant that flourishes in saline areas. Successful propagation requires seed contact with a host plant for water and nutrients. Managing light and moisture is essential for germination, while mimicking natural conditions and maintaining host health are key for salt marsh dodder's growth.

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