Broomrapes

Broomrapes (Orobanche spp.) are root parasites in the broomrape family (Orobanchaceae) with approximately 200 species worldwide. Broomrapes are serious agricultural pests of vegetables and legumes, weakening host plants and reducing crop yields. Most problems globally are attributed to Egyptian broomrape (Orobanche aegyptiaca), nodding broomrape (O. cernua), crenate broomrape (O. crenata), sunflower broomrape (O. cumana), common broomrape (O. minor) and branched broomrape (O. ramosa).

Report a broomrape sighting

Where they're found

There are currently 8 native broomrape species present in Canada. Broomrapes occupy a variety of habitats in the warmer regions of the temperate zone. They are parasites that require host plants to survive. Many species are generalists, attacking a wide range of hosts from different plant families, while others are specialists and have a narrow host range.

How to spot them

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Broomrape roots are poorly developed, sometimes coral-like and attach to their hosts via suckers. Stems are usually 10-60 cm tall and vary in colour between white, yellow, brownish and purple. Leaves are alternate or spirally arranged and reduced to scales or bracts. Flowers are irregular, snapdragon-like, usually 1.0-2.2 cm long and yellow, white, blue or purple. Fruits are single-celled capsules containing hundreds of seeds. Seeds are tiny (~0.3 mm long), egg-shaped to oblong, black or brown with a roughened surface.

How they spread

Broomrapes produce numerous tiny seeds that may be dispersed with seed and grain or as general hitchhikers on clothing, animals and agricultural equipment. Natural spread also occurs by wind and water.

What you can do

• Use clean, high quality seed that is certified if possible
• Use clean grain, hay and straw
• Ensure machinery, vehicles and tools are free of soil and plant parts before moving them from one area to another
• If you think you've spotted it in Canada, take a photo and report a broomrape sighting to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. We will follow up and determine if further action is needed.

What we are doing

Non-native broomrapes are regulated as pests in Canada under the Plant Protection Act. Importation and domestic movement of regulated plants and their propagative parts is prohibited.

• D-12-01: Phytosanitary Requirements to Prevent the Introduction of Plants Regulated as Pests in Canada

Please note that following native broomrapes are exempt from regulation under the Plant Protection Act:

• Orobanche californica (California broomrape)
• Orobanche corymbosa (flat-top broomrape)
• Orobanche fasciculata (clustered broomrape)
• Orobanche ludoviciana (Louisiana broomrape)
• Orobanche pinorum (pine broomrape)
• Orobanche uniflora (one-flowered broomrape)

More information

• Weed seed: Broomrape
• Invasive plants field guide
• Learn more about invasive species