Broomrape

Description:

Broomrape is a parasitic perennial plant that is native to the temperate northern hemisphere. It’s stalk is yellow and is unable to produce chlorophyll and therefore cannot photosynthesize. It relies completely on its host plant for nutrients. Broomrape seeds can sit in the soil for many years; their germination is triggered by certain natural chemicals that are created by a nearby living root. The seed becomes aware that a potential host is nearby and then it germinates and latches on. Is flowers are usually yellow, white, blue or purple, and the petals and stems have “hair” growing on them.

Habitat:

Spotted in a meadow at Seih-Sou, the suburban forest of Thessaloniki (Greece).