Broom Rape
Orobanche ludoviciana
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Pl. 00D6 — Orobanche ludoviciana
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IOverview
Overview
Broom Rape (Orobanche ludoviciana) is a perennial forb or herb known for its distinctive parasitic nature, where it attaches to the roots of other plants to obtain nutrients. Native to regions including Alabama, Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, and parts of Mexico, this plant thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is often found in full sun to partial shade. While primarily known for its parasitic habits, Broom Rape also has edible roots and stems, making it a unique addition to certain culinary uses despite its unconventional growth pattern.
Quick answers
What is Broom Rape?
Broom Rape (Orobanche ludoviciana) is a perennial forb or herb known for its distinctive parasitic nature, where it attaches to the roots of other plants to obtain nutrients.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Broom Rape thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial forb/herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. Native to regions including Alabama, Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, and parts of Mexico, this plant is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or divisions. Edible parts include the root and stem, making it a useful addition to gardens where space and light conditions are suitable.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Broom Rape for the first time
8steps
Start with Broom Rape as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plot of well-draining soil and a sunny spot in the garden.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Broom Rape seeds or transplant seedlings in spring after the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy with good drainage. Full sun to partial shade works well.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the garden bed or use small seedlings transplanted from a nursery.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and keep the soil consistently moist. Prune dead foliage as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead stems in late summer to encourage new growth for next year.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:RootStem
Edible uses: The root and stem of Broom Rape are edible. Typically, these parts can be prepared in various ways—raw or cooked. They are often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed preparation methods as specific techniques were not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
27 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
27 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 27 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Manitoba, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 00d65870-4ab9-4916-9269-b57ab77e7e7d
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