Overview
Orobanche hederae is a plant with a herbaceous perennial habit in the genus Orobanche, part of the Orobanchaceae family, with scale-like leaves foliage. Orobanche hederae grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and conservation areas.
About
Orobanche hederae, commonly known as ivy broomrape or gorfanhadlen eiddew, is a herbaceous perennial belonging to the Orobanchaceae family. It features scale-like leaves and thrives in full sun, favouring south- or west-facing aspects with either exposed or sheltered conditions. This plant adapts well to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, and tolerates a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. Suitable for wildlife gardens and conservation areas, it is best planted in well-drained soil and requires watering during establishment. Its season of interest spans spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Orobanche
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Dry, Moist, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Orobanche hederae size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Scale-like leaves
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Conservation areas
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Orobanche hederae
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- High
- Disease resistance
- High
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Orobanche hederae?
Orobanche hederae prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Orobanche hederae need?
Orobanche hederae is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays dry to moist to well-drained.
Is Orobanche hederae hardy in the UK?
Orobanche hederae has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Orobanche hederae?
Seed.
