Convolvulaceae: Morning-glory Family — Cuscuta (Dodder)

California Dodder – Cuscuta californica var. californica

Blooms:

May–Sept

Plant Height:

Vine-like

Flower Size:

Very small

Origin:

Native

Habitat:

Grows on other plants, many communities

Notes:

Dodder is unmistakable.  It has prolific, thread-like yellowish-orange stems which wind around and feed off its host plants.  It is wholly parasitic on its host, and can kill it.  You may search in vain for green leaves!  Normally annual, but can be perennial if on a perennial host.  Flowers are essential to distinguish different species or varieties.

Saltmarsh Dodder – Cuscuta pacifica var. pacifica

Blooms:

July–Oct

Plant Height:

Vine-like

Flower Size:

Very small

Origin:

Native

Habitat:

Coastal, grows on saltmarsh plants

Notes:

This particular dodder climbs up saltmarsh plants, such as Pickleweed (Salicornia pacifica).  Its yellow-orange, thread-like stems stand out against the green host plants.  It is wholly parasitic on its host, and can kill it.  Photos show Dodder on Pickleweed, by CJH.

Dodder, Saltmarsh
Dodder, Saltmarsh
Dodder, Saltmarsh
Dodder, Saltmarsh