Family: Orobanchaceae Genus: Orobanche  

Species: Orobanche gracilis Sm.

Common Name(s): broomrape, slender broomrape; (Spanish) gallos

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Orobanche gracilis, also known as broomrape, is found in most of central and southern Europe, including many of the Mediterranean islands, the north coast of Africa, and as far east as Romania. It thrives in dry meadows and shrubs, mainly on limestone soils. Broomrapes are best recognized by their yellow to straw-colored stems completely lacking chlorophyll, bearing yellow, white, or blue snapdragon-like flowers.

Etymology

The genus name Orobanche is derived from the Greek word “orobos,” which refers to a kind of vetch, and “anchein,” which means to strangle or to choke. This likely refers to the parasitic nature of plants in this genus, as they attach themselves to the roots of host plants and can potentially harm or choke them. The specific epithet gracilis comes from the Latin word meaning slender or graceful. It likely refers to the slender and delicate appearance of this particular species within the Orobanche genus.251

Ecology

As it has no chlorophyll, the broomrape is parasitic and totally dependent on other plants for nutrients. Broomrape seeds cannot germinate on their own, remaining dormant in the soil, often for many years, until stimulated to germinate from certain compounds naturally produced by potential host plant roots. The seedlings then put out a root-like growth which attaches to the roots of nearby hosts and robs them of water and nutrients. Given that broomrape targets tomato, eggplant, potato, cabbage, bell pepper, sunflower, celery, and bean plants, it’s considered an agricultural pest that can significantly threaten crops in some areas.252