Water
Hyobanche rubra is a root parasite and requires no direct watering as it obtains moisture and nutrients from its host plant. Avoid excessive soil moisture around its base, as this can lead to rot.
Red Catsnails (Hyobanche rubra) is a striking, leafless, parasitic plant native to southern Africa, known for its vibrant red, snail-shaped flower spikes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers to grow under the canopy of its host plant, which provides dappled sunlight.
Not Applicable
0% intensity
As a root parasite, it draws moisture from its host plant. Avoid watering the parasite directly.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Mild
50% intensity
Prefers mild temperatures, avoiding extreme heat or frost. Ideal range is typically between 15-25°C.
Not Applicable
0% intensity
Does not require fertilization as it is a root parasite and obtains nutrients from its host.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Hyobanche rubra is a root parasite and requires no direct watering as it obtains moisture and nutrients from its host plant. Avoid excessive soil moisture around its base, as this can lead to rot.
Pruning is generally not applicable to Hyobanche rubra, as it is an ephemeral parasitic plant that emerges briefly. Any material that remains after flowering typically senesces and decomposes naturally.
Hyobanche rubra is propagated through its seeds, which are dispersed by insects or wind. Germination is stimulated by the presence of specific host plant roots, making artificial propagation challenging.
Repotting is not a relevant practice for Hyobanche rubra. As a root parasite, it attaches to a host plant's roots and grows from there. It is not grown in a separate pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Catsnails (Hyobanche rubra)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Hyobanche |
| Species | Hyobanche rubra |
Similar in genus Hyobanche
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
