SafePlants

Cuscuta californica: Chaparral Dodder and California Dodder

Cuscuta californica, commonly known as Chaparral dodder and California dodder, is a fascinating parasitic plant native to western North America. Its vibrant yellow-orange color makes it easily noticeable in its natural habitat.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant resembles fine strands of orange-brown spaghetti.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cuscuta californica Hook. & Arn.
• Common Names: Chaparral dodder, California dodder, witch's hair, strangleweed
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory family), Cuscutaceae (Dodder family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Includes various subspecies and varieties, such as Cuscuta californica var. californica, Cuscuta californica var. papillosa, and Cuscuta californica var. breviflora and Cuscuta californica ssp. apiculata, and Cuscuta californica ssp. breviflora.

Distribution and Habitat

• Cuscuta californica is native to western North America.
• It thrives in various plant communities, including chaparral, from sea level up to 8,000 feet.
• Frequently found in salt marshes or chaparral.

Ecological Role

• Cuscuta californica is a parasitic plant, meaning it obtains nutrients by attaching to and penetrating other plants (hosts). It drains nutrition from other plants via structures called haustoria.
• Because it is parasitic, it cannot live on its own.
• Its abundance may account for the population of organisms that use the chaparral plants that the Dodder grows on.
• Considered a hairy parasite.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a parasitic, herbaceous annual vine.
• Resembles fine strands of orange-brown spaghetti.
• Lacks chlorophyll.
• Appears like a pile of yellow or orange straw wrapped lightly around its host plant.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• As a parasitic plant, it depends on host plants for survival.
• It is parasitic on many chaparral plants.
• Eaten by many animals in the chaparral.