Species California Broomrape
purple-white flowers with green foliage

California Broomrape

Aphyllon californicum subsp. californicum

California Broomrape (Aphyllon californicum subsp. californicum) is a unique parasitic plant found exclusively in California. Described as dark-red to purple, its fleshy stem has no leaves, but rather attaches itself to the roots of native and introduced shrubs in the pea family. California Broomrape relies entirely on the plants it parasitizes for nutrients and water. It is quite rare and listed as Endangered under the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts, requiring immediate conservation.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Western Lady's Mantle (Aphanes occidentalis) is best watered twice a week during the growing season,spring through fall.In the winter, water sparingly once a month.It prefers moist soil, so check the soil with your finger for moisture before watering. If the soil is still moist, you can wait to water. When watering, be sure to water thoroughly until water is seen to come out of the bottom of the pot. Do not allow the plant to stand in water.

sunlight

Western Lady's Mantle requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for it to thrive. This can come in the form of morning sun, when the sun is at its weakest and at its highest in the sky, or mid-day to mid-afternoon sun. During the peak of summer, the plant will benefit from having some level of shade present, as the sun's intensity can be too strong for its needs. When located in an area with more intense sunlight, the plant may need to be given some extra protection from the sun's rays to ensure it does not experience damage.

pruning

Western Lady's Mantle (Aphanes occidentalis) typically requires minimal pruning, and should only be pruned in early spring before any new growth emerges. Pruning at this time helps to maintain the desired size and shape of the plant, and to remove any dead or obviously damaged foliage or branches. It is not necessary to routinely prune Western Lady's Mantle as it does not require it to remain within a particular size or shape. However, if dead, damaged or diseased parts become apparent, they should be removed to promote healthy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.