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American cancer-root
Scientific Name: Conopholis americana
Family: Orobanchaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: NH (squaw-root), NY (squawroot)
Conopholis americana: American Cancer-Root, Squawroot, or Bear Corn
Conopholis americana, commonly known as American cancer-root, squawroot, or bear corn, is a fascinating parasitic plant with a unique lifestyle.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant has scale-like leaves.
Considerations for Children
- The plant has a spiked appearance.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Conopholis americana (L.) Wallr.
- Common Names: American cancer-root, squawroot, bear corn, American Broomrape.
- Family: Orobanchaceae (Broom-Rape family)
Distribution and Habitat
- Conopholis americana occurs in rich hardwood forests throughout the Eastern region of the United States and Canada.
- It is also found in PR, Virgin Islands, VI, Navassa Island, NAV, Canada, CAN, Greenland, GL, Saint Pierre and Michelon, SPM, and North America.
Ecological Role
- This plant is a perennial, non-photosynthesizing (achlorophyllous) parasitic plant.
- It derives its nutrients solely from the roots of oaks (Quercus), by connecting to them with specialized roots.
Morphological Characteristics
- Conopholis americana lacks chlorophyll and has scale-like leaves.
- It has a spiked appearance.
Additional Information
- Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Conopholis americana.