California Broomrape, Jepson's broomrape
Orobanche californica
Family: Orobanchaceae
What it is like
Orobanche californica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.1
Where it is found
Parasitic on Artemisia tridentata, growing on open slopes in foothills and valleys below 1500 metres.
South-western N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Underground stems - raw or cooked. A succulent texture, they are very thirst quenching.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 1
A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of colds, pneumonia and pulmonary complaints.
Pectoral: Relieves respiratory diseases, a remedy for chest diseases.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, but judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. It requires a well-drained soil and should succeed in sun or shade. A fully parasitic plant lacking in chlorophyll, it is entirely dependant upon its host plant for obtaining nutrient.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse in a pot containing a host plant. The seed is probably best sown as soon as it is ripe if this is possible. It might also be possible to sow the seed in situ around a host plant.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Full shade, semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist