How much sun does Cluster Broomrape need?

Cluster Broomrape grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Cluster Broomrape bloom?

Cluster Broomrape blooms in June, July, and August.

Where is Cluster Broomrape native?

Cluster Broomrape (Orobanche fasciculata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Cluster Broomrape HOA-friendly?

Cluster Broomrape takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Cluster Broomrape

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Orobanche fasciculata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, IA and 19 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Chihuahuan Deserts Sonoran Basin and Range

Clustered broomrape is a parasitic wildflower that lacks chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize on its own. It attaches to the roots of other plants, particularly sagebrush and other shrubs, to obtain nutrients. The plant produces clusters of tubular, yellowish to purplish flowers on short, thick stems.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cluster Broomrape takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Parasitic nature makes it unsuitable for maintained landscapes
Unusual appearance may be perceived as diseased or dying plants
Cannot be cultivated or controlled like typical garden plants

Wildlife value

This native parasitic plant provides nectar for various small pollinators including native bees and flies. Its specialized nature means it has co-evolved relationships with specific host plants and their associated wildlife communities.

Common questions

How much sun does Cluster Broomrape need?: Cluster Broomrape grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Cluster Broomrape bloom?: Cluster Broomrape blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Cluster Broomrape native?: Cluster Broomrape (Orobanche fasciculata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Cluster Broomrape HOA-friendly?: Cluster Broomrape takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Cluster Broomrape? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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