Botanical name

Hyobanche sanguinea

Family

Orobanchaceae

Common Name

Wolwekos, Katnaels, Snail Flower
Hyobanche sanguinea
Hyobanche sanguinea
Hyobanche sanguinea
Hyobanche sanguinea
Hyobanche sanguinea
Hyobanche sanguinea

Description

A fleshy, root holoparasite with unbranched stem, reaching about 15cm in height. The clustered water-melon red, velvety flowers are hooded and have curved, white anthers which protrude from the flowers. The underground stems may reach up to 2 metres before producing flowers. Chemicals secreted by the roots of the host stimulate the minute seeds to germinate.

Host plants are shrubs including Aspalathus, Hermannia, Metalasia and Proteas.

Pollinated by sunbirds.

Habitat

Sandy slopes and flats

Flower Date

August to November