Oneflowered broomrape
Orobanche uniflora
Family: Orobanchaceae
What it is like
Orobanche uniflora is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Open moist or dry places, or in dry woods, from lowland to low elevations, where it is parasitic on the roots of various herbs.
N. America - Newfoundland to Ontario, South Carolina and Texas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The whole plant is edible raw or cooked.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is laxative and sedative.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Sedative: Gently calms, reducing nervousness, distress and irritation.
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, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this 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. It is mainly parasitic on Sedum species and members of the families Compositae and Saxifragaceae in the wild. A polymorphic species.
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;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist