Determining the Squaw-Root

Squaw-root (Conopholis americana), is a member of the broom-rape family (Oronanchaceae), a large group of mostly tropical plants. It is a parasite on tree roots (mostly oaks), from which it gets its nourishment. In the process, squaw-root causes malformed, knobby growths on oak roots, but is not generally detrimental. This plant largely consists of a small spike of crowded flowers 5-20 centimeters (2-8 inches) high. Due to its parasitic nature, squaw-root grows no green leaves and manufactures no food via photosynthesis. The stems do not branch out, and are covered with tiny scaly leaves.

Today's photo was taken on wooded slopes near Dooley Run in Dunkard Township in Greene County by WPC Ecologist Robert Coxe during field work for the Greene County Natural Heritage Inventory.

E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!

Sign Up for WPC Daily