SafePlants

Cuscuta californica: Chaparral and California Dodder

Cuscuta californica, commonly known as Chaparral dodder or California dodder, is a fascinating parasitic plant native to western North America.

Considerations for Pets

• Resembles fine strands of orange-brown spaghetti.
• May be found "strewn across and within" chaparral environments.

Considerations for Children

• Resembles fine strands of orange-brown spaghetti.
• May be found "strewn across and within" chaparral environments.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Cuscuta californica Hook. & Arn.
• Common Names: Chaparral dodder, California dodder, Witch's hair, Strangleweed
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory Family) or Cuscutaceae (Dodder Family) - *Note: the family placement of Cuscuta is debated.*
• Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America.
• Found in many plant communities, including chaparral.
• Grows from sea level up to 8,000 feet.
• Frequently found in salt marshes.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Parasitic, herbaceous annual plant.
• Resembles fine strands of orange-brown spaghetti or a pile of yellow or orange straw.
• Lacks chlorophyll.
• Drains nutrition from other plants using haustoria.

Ecological Role

• A parasitic vine that drains nutrition from host plants.
• Cannot live on its own.
• May be considered an indicator of when chaparral needs to burn.

Subspecies and Varieties

• Cuscuta californica var. californica
• Cuscuta californica var. papillosa (Rough Chaparral Dodder)
• Cuscuta californica var. breviflora
• Cuscuta californica ssp. apiculata
• Cuscuta californica ssp. breviflora

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Parasitic on many chaparral plants.
• Eaten by many animals in the chaparral.
• Host plant for Cuscuta californica can include laurel sumac (Malosma laurina).