Hyobanche sanguinea

Hyobanche sanguinea

African broomrape

★

Taxonomy

Common Names

African broomrape

Context

nativeRegion

South Africa, especially the Western and Eastern Cape provinces.

usdaZones

Not cultivated; USDA zones not applicable; wild habitat is Mediterranean-type climate.

companionPlants

Shrubs of the Fynbos biome, particularly species of Aizoaceae, Fabaceae, and Asteraceae; especially Metalasia spp. and Stoebe spp.

culturalUses

Dramatic wildflower with ecological significance as a parasite; not used in cultivation or traditional medicine.

Care

LightPrefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in its native habitat.

WateringRequires very little supplemental water; naturally adapted to dry conditions.

SoilGrows parasitically on the roots of other plants, especially shrubs; soil requirements depend upon host presence.

FertilizerDoes not benefit from fertilization; relies on nutrients from host plant.

HumidityPrefers dry air, typical of South African fynbos and scrubland.

TemperatureBest suited to mild, frost-free temperatures (10-25°C).

HabitHerbaceous, leafless, parasitic perennial.

Mature Size15-50 cm tall during flowering.

Growth RateModerate; emerges seasonally depending on host plant growth.

BloomingProduces dense spikes of striking red to pink flowers in spring to early summer.

DormancyUnderground during unfavorable conditions; above-ground growth tied to flowering season.

MethodsSeed (difficult; requires compatible host plant roots)

DifficultyVery difficult due to complex parasitic lifecycle.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer, coinciding with host plant growth.

PruningNot required.

RepottingNot typically grown in containers; transplanting is unsuccessful.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free; main risk is lack of a suitable host.

ToxicityNot known to be toxic.

No public plants yet.