Water
Chinese dodder is a parasitic plant and does not require watering as it obtains moisture and nutrients from its host. Overwatering can lead to root rot in the host plant and is generally detrimental.
Also known as Common Dodder
Chinese dodder (Cuscuta chinensis) is a parasitic vine with no leaves or chlorophyll, relying entirely on host plants for survival. It's used in traditional medicine.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Indirect Sunlight
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light, but will grow in partial shade as long as its host plant is healthy and receives adequate light.
Not Applicable
0% intensity
As a parasite, Cuscuta chinensis obtains water from its host plant.
Loam, Sand, Silt, Clay
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, typically between 20-30°C, during its growing season. Frost will kill the plant.
Not Applicable
0% intensity
Parasitic plant; does not require separate fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Chinese dodder is a parasitic plant and does not require watering as it obtains moisture and nutrients from its host. Overwatering can lead to root rot in the host plant and is generally detrimental.
Pruning of Chinese dodder is typically focused on removal rather than shaping. If an infestation is detected, it's crucial to remove the parasitic stems and flowers before they produce seeds to prevent further spread and to protect the host plant.
Chinese dodder propagates primarily through seeds, which are dispersed by wind, water, or animals. Germination is stimulated by light and the presence of host plants.
Vegetative propagation can also occur from stem fragments.
Repotting is not applicable to Chinese dodder as it is an annual parasitic vine that does not grow in its own potting medium. It attaches to and grows on a host plant, deriving its sustenance from it.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Dodder (Cuscuta chinensis)
Where Chinese Dodder (Cuscuta chinensis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Cuscuta |
| Species | Cuscuta chinensis |
Similar in genus Cuscuta
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
