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clover dodder

Scientific Name: Cuscuta epithymum

Family: Cuscutaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Vine, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Clover Dodder: A Parasitic Plant

Clover dodder, scientifically known as Cuscuta epithymum, is a fascinating yet potentially problematic plant. Commonly called clover dodder, it's also known as common dodder or lesser dodder. In French, it's called "cuscute du thym" and in Russian "&#1087&#1086&#1074&#1080&#1083&#1080&#1082&#1072 &#1082&#1083&#1077&#1074&#1077&#1088&#1085&#1072&#1103, &#1087&#1086&#1074&#1080&#1083&#1080&#1082&#1072 &#1090&#1080&#1084&#1100&#1103&#1085&#1086&#1074&#1072&#1103."

Considerations for Pets

  • As a plant that looks similar to spaghetti, especially with its yellowish-orange color, it might attract the attention of pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Clover dodder produces seeds that are similar in size to clover seeds, potentially leading to accidental ingestion by children who may be playing in areas where clover is grown.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cuscuta epithymum (L.) L.
  • Family: Convolvulaceae (the same family as Ipomoea)
  • Synonym: Cuscuta europaea var. epithymum

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Europe, clover dodder now occurs almost worldwide.
  • It commonly parasitizes heather (Calluna vulgaris), gorse (Ulex europaeus), and clover (Trifolium) species.
  • It has been introduced to North America.

Ecological Role

  • Clover dodder is a parasitic plant, meaning it obtains nutrients from other plants.
  • It is described as one of the most rapidly growing parasitic plants.
  • It can be an agricultural pest, infesting crops like alfalfa, lespedeza, flax, and clover.

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is a rootless, wholly parasitic plant.
  • Dodder is often yellowish-orange and resembles spaghetti.

Quirky Facts

  • Historical records from Grindon's "Flora" (1859) mention its presence in a clover field at Bredbury, highlighting its long-standing presence and impact.
  • Common names include hair, devil's ringlet, and pull down, referencing the plant's appearance and parasitic behavior.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Clover dodder is parasitic on a wide variety of plants.

Further Information

  • Additional information and media can be found at Bugwood.org.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.