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alpine cancer-root
Scientific Name: Conopholis alpina
Family: Orobanchaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Conopholis alpina: The Alpine Cancer-Root
Conopholis alpina, commonly known as the Alpine Cancer-Root, is a fascinating plant with a unique lifestyle.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- As a root parasite, Conopholis alpina connects to the roots of host trees, potentially making it difficult to remove entirely from a garden or natural area.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Conopholis alpina Liebm.
- Common Names: Alpine Cancer-Root, Alpine Squawroot, American Cancer-Root, Squawroot, Mexican Cancer-Root
- Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms: The text mentions variations such as Conopholis alpina var. mexicana and Conopholis sylvatica.
Description
- Conopholis alpina is an achlorophyllous plant, meaning it lacks chlorophyll and cannot produce its own food through photosynthesis.
- It is a holoparasite, meaning it's a root parasitic plant. It obtains all its nutrients from the roots of its host plants.
Distribution and Habitat
- Conopholis alpina is native to Northern Mexico and the west and southwest USA.
- It is described as an alpine plant, with related variants found in alpine regions.
Ecological Role
- As a parasite, Conopholis alpina derives its nutrients from the roots of oaks (Quercus).
Quirky Facts
- The name "cancer-root" might seem alarming, but it refers to the plant's appearance, not necessarily any direct link to treating the disease. The name "squawroot" is a historical name, and can be considered offensive.
- Conopholis alpina is also referred to as the alpine squawroot
Further Information
- Discover Life provides a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Conopholis alpina.
- Encyclopedia of Life also offers information on this species and its family, Orobanchaceae.