Cuscuta europaea
greater dodder
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
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Orange Yellow | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Pink White | Orange Yellow | ||
| Autumn | Orange Yellow | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Convolvulaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- 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
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