Orobanche ammophyla
C.A.Mey.
Lie Dang
gbif· cc-by
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
gbif· cc0
Conveyor Belt
gbif· cc-by
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Description
Orobanche ammophyla is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 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.
Edible Uses
Young plant - raw or cooked. Root - raw or cooked.
Medicinal Uses
Aphrodisiac Kidney Laxative Tonic. The plant is aphrodisiac and tonic. The whole plant is used medicinally for invigorating the kidneys and strengthening yang, relaxing the bowels, strengthening bones and muscles.
Distribution
E. Asia - China.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in this country. It probably requires a well-drained soil and should succeed in sun or shade. A fully parasitic plant lacking in chlorophyll, it is entirely dependant upon its host plant for obtaining nutrient.
Propagation
Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse in a pot containing a host plant. The seed is probably best sown as soon as it is ripe if this is possible. It might also be possible to sow the seed in situ around a host plant.
