Cuscutaceae, Dodder Family
(See Convolvulaceae, Morning Glory Family)
The Dodder Family or Cuscutaceae has been taxonomically revised and included in the Morning Glory Family (Convolvulaceae).
The former Cuscutaceae family was unispecific with the single genus, Cuscuta. Cuscuta are leafless parasitic plants referred to collectively as Dodders. Leaves are reduced to very small scales. Dodders may be pink, yellow, orange, red or cream colored with little or no green pigmentation. Some species do however contain small amounts of chlorophyll and are able to photosynthesize slightly (autotrophytic), while other species are completely dependent on their host plants.
Cuscuta fruits are round capsules remaining closed or opening when mature, and contain large numbers of small seeds. Seeds may remain viable in the soil for up to 10 years and after germination must attach to a host plant with 10 days or so. Seeds develop a root quickly using up their embryonic food reserves while attaching directly to a suitable host plant (or multiple hosts), woody or herbaceous, through suckering like organs called "haustoria". The original root no longer plays a role in development and quickly dies.
Some species show a host preference but most typically will attach and grow on any herbaceous plant. Cuscuta may cause significant damage to economically important agricultural and horticultural crops including; Alfalfa, Flax, Clover, Potatoes, Chrysanthemum, Ivy, Petunias, Trumpet Vines and others.
Cuscuta is found in the temperate and tropical areas of the world, mostly in the subtropical and tropical areas and less common in cool temperate zones. Worldwide local names include; Devil's Guts, Goldthread, Hailweed, Hellbine, Love Vine, Strangleweed, Angel Hair and Witch's Hair.
In Arizona Cuscuta seeds are often included with host seeds of Alfalfa and Clover.
The genus Cuscuta includes 127 accepted species names.
- See Cucurbitaceae Species