Cuscuta salina aka Saltmarsh Dodder

Taxonomy

Cuscuta salina, also known as salt marsh dodder, is a native plant of western North America. It can be found in coastal tidal wetlands in California as well as in alkaline or saline habitats such as vernal pools and salt flats. This parasitic plant wraps its orange stems around other wetland vegetation and absorbs nutrients through its haustoria. The dodder has rudimentary, scale-like leaves and produces bell-shaped flowers with white glandular corollas. Meanwhile, Goldenthread is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and long-lasting, direct light. It should be placed less than a foot away from a window and may benefit from organic fertilizer during the peak growing season.

Common names

Saltmarsh Dodder, Goldenthread

How to care for Saltmarsh Dodder

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Saltmarsh Dodder due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Saltmarsh Dodder should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Saltmarsh Dodder prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

Saltmarsh Dodder grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.


More info:
Wikipedia