Cuscuta europaea

RHS Plant Profile
greater dodder
greater dodder visionspictures.com

Other common names

strangle tare, strangle weed

Annual Biennial

An annual parasitic vine, notable for its distinctively vibrant orange-yellow, thread-like stems. Growing approximately 1–2m in height and spread extensively across host plants, it entirely lacks conventional leaves, instead possessing minute scale-like structures. Small clusters of lightly scented, cream-white to pinkish, bell-shaped flowers bloom from July to September. Although interesting ecologically for its parasitic lifestyle, it is not recommended for garden use due to its aggressive and harmful effect on host plants

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Convolvulaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Climbing
Genus
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Thrives best in damp, sunny sites, parasitising vigorous hosts like nettles (Urtica dioica), willowherbs (Epilobium spp.), and hops (Humulus lupulus) in nutrient-rich conditions

Propagation

Primarily propagates by seed, which can remain dormant in soil for years. Once sprouted, seedlings must quickly locate a host plant or perish

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free