SafePlants

African Dodder (Cuscuta cassytoides)

African Dodder, scientifically known as Cuscuta cassytoides Nees ex Engelm., is a parasitic plant belonging to the genus Cuscuta. Often referred to simply as "dodder," this plant lacks true leaves and roots, relying on other plants for sustenance.

Considerations for Pets

• Dodder is a vine and may cause entanglement issues, so it is best to keep away from them.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cuscuta cassytoides Nees ex Engelm.
• Common Name: African Dodder
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: While the text doesn't explicitly list synonyms, it mentions other Cuscuta species such as Cuscuta compacta, Cuscuta campestris, Cuscuta californica, Cuscuta ceanothi, Cuscuta tasmanica, Cuscuta angulata, Cuscuta europaea, and Cuscuta hyalina. However, these are distinct species and not synonyms of Cuscuta cassytoides.

Distribution and Habitat

• Widely distributed throughout East Africa.
• Also found in South Africa.

Ecological Role

• Dodder is an obligate parasitic herb, meaning it relies entirely on other plants for survival.
• It can be a major threat to crops like Sericea, tomatoes, alfalfa, and carrots.
• Considered an invasive plant in some regions.

Morphological Characteristics

• Twining, parasitic herb.
• Thread-like stems.
• Leaves are reduced to tiny scales (lacks true leaves).
• Lacks true roots.

Quirky Facts

• Dodder is one of the only plants that doesn't have chlorophyll.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Parasitic on various plants.
• Used in studies as a model for other parasites, such as Striga, which attacks maize and sorghum roots.
• Can transmit plant diseases, such as the African strain of citrus greening organism.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cuscuta cassytoides.
• The East African Agricultural Journal contains an article on dodder.
• The Red List of South African Plants may contain information on related species like Cuscuta angulata.