Germander broomrape (Orobanche teucrii, Fl. Moselle 2: 322 (1829))

Family: Orobanchaceae

Author: Holandre

Bibliography: Fl. Moselle 2: 322 (1829)

Year: 1829

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Orobanche

Vegetable: False

Observations: Europe

Description

Germander broomrape, known scientifically as Orobanche teucrii, is a fascinating species belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. This botanical curiosity has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike due to its unique parasitic lifestyle and distinctive morphological characteristics.

First described in the early 19th century by Holandre in “Fl. Moselle”, published in 1829, Orobanche teucrii takes residence primarily in Europe. It thrives across a range of habitats, demonstrating a remarkable adaptability to different environmental conditions within this continent.

Unlike typical green plants, Germander broomrape lacks chlorophyll, rendering it incapable of photosynthesizing to produce its own food. Instead, it parasitizes the roots of host plants, particularly those in the genus Teucrium (germanders). Through specialized structures known as haustoria, Orobanche teucrii penetrates the roots of its host to siphon off water and essential nutrients, effectively making it a dependent tenant.

The plant is easily identified by its striking appearance. Instead of the lush, green foliage seen in many plants, germander broomrape exhibits a distinctive stem that ranges in color from pale yellow to brownish. It is adorned with tightly packed flowers that often present a spectrum of white to purplish hues. This floral display not only facilitates reproduction but also adds a touch of beauty to its otherwise unassuming form.

Ecologically, Orobanche teucrii plays a nuanced role. Although parasitic plants can sometimes be viewed negatively due to their impact on host plants, they are also integral components of their ecosystems. By forming complex relationships with their hosts, they contribute to the biodiversity and dynamic interactions within plant communities.

In summary, the Germander broomrape is a remarkable example of nature’s diversity and adaptability. Its parasitic existence, historical botanical significance, and distinct characteristics make it a plant of considerable interest. As researchers continue to study it, Orobanche teucrii undoubtedly offers valuable insights into the complex and intricate web of life that flourishes in European ecosystems.

Common Names

Deu: gamander-sommerwurz
Eng: germander broomrape
En: Germander broomrape
Nl: Gamanderbremraap
Fr: Orobanche de la germandrée
De: Gamander-Sommerwurz
It: Succiamele del Teucrio

Synonyms

• Orobanche marginata (Reut. ex Boiss.)
• Orobanche teucriophya (St.-Lag.)
• Orobanche atrorubens (F.W.Schultz)
• Catodiacrum rubidum (Dulac)
• Orobanche sideritis (Huter, Porta & Rigo)
• Orobanche teucrionepiphyta (St.-Lag.)
• Orobanche lazica (Reut. ex Boiss.)
• Orobanche atropurpurea (F.W.Schultz)

Distribution

• Austria (native)
• Belgium (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• Czechoslovakia (native)
• France (native)
• Germany (native)
• Hungary (native)
• Italy (native)
• Romania (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Spain (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Ukraine (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2021 by Patrick Nard (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 8, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Constant BERROU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 3, 2021 by Renaud LDM (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 20, 2020 by Mathieu PROUST (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 2, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Henri SCORDIA (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 29, 2020 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken Jun 12, 1872 by Tela Botanica − Herbier PONTARLIER-MARICHAL (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 5, 2020 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2005 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3730664)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:662744-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Orobanche teucrii Holandre)

Specifications

Growth

Bloom months: [‘jun’, ‘jul’]