Boulardia latisquama
Care, watering, light and tips for Boulardia latisquama on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Orobanchaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Boulardia latisquama
Boulardia latisquama, also known as rosemary broomrape, is a fascinating parasitic plant that grows on the roots of rosemary. Its robust, scaly stems, ranging from reddish to purplish, emerge from the ground, forming a dense and striking inflorescence. It makes an intriguing addition to Mediterranean-style gardens or rockeries where rosemary is already established.
Native range
Mediterranean region, specifically in Southern Spain and Northern Africa.
Care tips
As a parasitic plant, Boulardia latisquama is not cultivated in the traditional sense; it is entirely dependent on the presence of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) as its host. It does not require direct watering or fertilization, as it obtains all its nutrients from the rosemary. The primary care involves ensuring the host rosemary is healthy and well-established. Avoid attempting to grow it in pots or without its natural host, as it will not thrive.
How to save a dying Boulardia latisquama
- Warning signs
- General wilting, yellowing or browning leaves, sparse or no flowering, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check the host plant's substrate. Ensure good drainage. Verify the host is healthy.
- What kills it
- Lack of a suitable host or poor soil. Excessive moisture rots roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the cause is corrected quickly and a compatible, healthy host is ensured.