Cowpea witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

Cowpea witchweed

Also known as: Purple witchweed

Cowpea witchweed is an invasive species that is entirely parasitic for a wide range of other plants, including cowpea and tobacco. This plant is particularly fast-spreading because it produces an enormous number of seeds, over sixty thousand per plant. Often the plant can't be easily observed on the host plant and is only revealed by poor growth and weathered foliage.

Scientific classification

Species

Cowpea witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Green

Leaf Color

3 mm to 5 mm

Flower Size

White, Purple

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cowpea witchweed

Distribution of Cowpea witchweed

Distribution Map

Cowpea witchweed is originally native to both the African and Asian continents. The plant thrives in diverse ecosystems across regions that encompass the sub-Saharan belt, parts of the Horn of Africa, and stretches into the southern tip of the continent. Additionally, its natural range extends into South and Southwest Asia, covering major regional ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland, grassland, cultivated ground

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Cowpea witchweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Cowpea witchweed prefers consistent moisture, mirroring its native habitat with regular rainfall. It efficiently manages water, tolerating short dry spells. Weekly watering is recommended to replicate its natural cycle. Primarily grown outdoors, cowpea witchweed thrives during the rainy season for optimal growth.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, cowpea witchweed need balanced nutrition fertilizers bimonthly during the active season. Caution against over-fertilization is essential. Reduce frequency in dormant periods, and always water cowpea witchweed post-fertilization to avoid root burn and ensure nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Cowpea witchweed is a parasitic plant known for its striking flowers. Prune from early to late spring to control its spread by removing infected host parts and cutting back flowering stems. This promotes healthier host plants and enhances overall management through consistent monitoring and targeted cuts.

Propagation: Cowpea witchweed is a parasitic weed that complicates propagation. Emphasizing cutting methods is essential, requiring healthy host plants and cuttings with developed haustoria. A sterile environment is crucial to prevent contamination, and diligent care is needed to ensure vigorous growth during establishment.

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