California Broomrape, Jepson's broomrape

Orobanche californica

Physical Characteristics

Orobanche californica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Underground stems - raw or cooked. A succulent texture[46, 61, 105], they are very thirst quenching[161].

Medicinal Uses

Pectoral A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of colds, pneumonia and pulmonary complaints.

Known Hazards

None known