SafePlants

Five-angled Dodder (Cuscuta pentagona)

Cuscuta pentagona, commonly known as five-angled dodder, is a fascinating parasitic plant with a unique lifestyle. Other common names include field dodder, western field dodder, prairie dodder, bushclover dodder, five-cornered dodder, love-vine, angel's-hair, witches’ shoelaces, and strangle vine.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a vine.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is a vine.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cuscuta pentagona Engelm.
• Family: Convolvulaceae (Dodder Family), previously classified in Cuscutaceae.
• Synonyms: Cuscuta arvensis, Cuscuta campestris
• Taxonomic Rank: Species; also a variety, Cuscuta pentagona var. pubescens

Distribution and Habitat

• Cuscuta pentagona is native to Illinois and occasional throughout the state.
• It is also found in Carroll Co., Maryland.
• Probably more common in Lower Hudson and New York City area.
• Generally found below 1500' near the coast (Western field dodder).

Ecological Role

• Cuscuta pentagona is a parasitic plant. It lacks chlorophyll and relies on host plants for sustenance.
• It infests a variety of crops including tomatoes.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a leafless annual vine of indeterminate length.
• The stems are described as string-like.
• Flowers are formed abundantly in dense clusters.

Quirky Facts

• Dodder seeds can last up to at least 5 years, dormant, waiting for the right conditions, and some Dodder seed can remain viable in the soil for 20 years.
• Dodder is a parasitic vine without chlorophyll.
• Some researchers say that dodder seeds can sniff for prey.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is a parasite on a variety of herbaceous and woody species.

Additional Resources

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Dave's Garden
• Vascular Flora of the Williamson County