Orobanchaceae

Orobanche species

Common Names: Broomrapes

Plant Form: Annual small parasitic herbs. Size: Up to 30 cm tall. Stem: Cream to yellow or brown with fine hairs, only flowering stem above ground. Leaves: N/A Flowers: Pale blue to violet, trumpet shaped, 1-2 cm long. Fruit and Seeds: Dull yellowish brown, single capsule containing hundreds of tiny seeds. Habitat: No habitat preference, based on host plants. Distinguishing Features: Very distinct colour due to the lack of chlorophyll. Introduced species can be distinguished from native species by host plants. Native Broomrapes (Orobanche species) prey on native plants only. Impacts: Parasites crops redcing yield dramatically, contaiminates seed.

Brown flowers

Thick when just emerged

Does not have its own leaves