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.
