SafePlants

Cuscuta indecora: Bigseed Alfalfa Dodder

Cuscuta indecora, commonly known as Bigseed Alfalfa Dodder, is a fascinating plant with a unique lifestyle. It's important to understand its characteristics and potential impact, especially in agricultural settings.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cuscuta indecora Choisy
• Common Names: Bigseed Alfalfa Dodder, Largeseed Dodder, Pretty Dodder, Large Alfalfa Dodder, Large-seed Dodder, Showy Dodder, Angel's Hair, Western Field Dodder, Greater Dodder.
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory Family) and Cuscutaceae (Dodder Family). Note: Some sources list this species in family Cuscutaceae, while others include it within Convolvulaceae.
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms:
  • Cuscuta indecora var. indecora Choisy
  • Cuscuta indecora var. neuropetala (Englemann) A.S.
  • Cuscuta californica

Distribution and Habitat

Cuscuta indecora is considered a Great Plains species, with a wide distribution across North America. It can be found from Illinois to South Dakota and from Florida to California. Its range also extends into Mexico. It is naturalised globally.

Ecological Role

Cuscuta indecora is a parasitic plant, meaning it obtains nutrients from other plants. As such, it can be considered a weed, especially in agricultural settings where it can impact crop yields. It is a restricted noxious weed in Arizona. It is parasitic on stems and other parts of cultivated or wild plants and is leafless.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Growth Habit: Forb/herb, Vine.
• Duration: Perennial, though some related species may be annual.
• Dodder plants are leafless.

Quirky Facts

• It is also known as "love fine" and "strangleweed".

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Discover Life page
• Invasive.org