Ivy broomrape
Orobanche hederae · Orobanchaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant ivy broomrape: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Orobanche hederae
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Flowering period
- April to June
- Adult size
- 20 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Hardy, down to -10°C
- Origin
- Central and Western Europe
- Foliage
- Herbaceous, without chlorophyll
Care
Exposure and location
This parasitic plant grows exclusively on ivy (Hedera helix) and cannot survive independently. It develops in partial shade, hidden on the stems of its host plant. No direct exposure is necessary since it depends entirely on ivy for its nutrition and light.
Watering and humidity
Ivy broomrape requires no direct watering, as it feeds via haustoria embedded in the roots of its host ivy. Normal ambient humidity will suffice, as a parasite it depends on the root system of its support plant.
Substrate and soil conditions
No specific soil amendment is required. Only the health of the host ivy matters: fertile and well-draining soil promotes ivy vitality, which indirectly supports the parasite. Excessive moisture or compacted soil weakens the ivy and limits parasitism.
Nutrition and fertilization
No fertilizer is needed. This plant is heterotrophic and feeds solely through ivy, drawing its mineral and water resources from it. Your effort should focus on the overall health of the host ivy if you wish to maintain it.
Management and removal
Ivy broomrape requires no pruning. If its presence is unwanted, removal is done by cutting visible flower stems or treating the host ivy carefully. By pulling out aerial parts, you slow down but may not entirely eliminate the parasitic roots.
Problems and pests
As a parasite, ivy broomrape can weaken ivy if there is a heavy infestation, causing slowed growth or dieback in affected areas. In ordinary cultivation, serious damage remains rare. If the ivy is in poor general health, parasitism worsens.
Did you know?
Ivy broomrape is an entirely parasitic plant: it possesses neither chlorophyll nor true leaves, and depends exclusively on ivy for its survival. Its pale yellow to pale pink flowers appear discreetly in spring, revealing its presence usually hidden beneath the host's foliage. This parasitic relationship has fascinated botanists since antiquity, when these enigmatic plants with 'no apparent roots' were already being observed.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.