Squawroot
Conopholis americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 21 more states
Squawroot is an unusual native parasitic plant that emerges from the soil as thick, yellowish-brown stalks covered in scale-like leaves. It gets its nutrients by attaching to tree roots, particularly oaks, and produces clusters of small tubular flowers along the stem. This plant cannot be cultivated in typical garden settings since it requires specific host trees to survive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Squawroot 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.
- Appears brown and mushroom-like rather than like typical garden plants
- Cannot be planted or controlled in landscaped areas
- May be mistaken for fungal growth or decay
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees and other small pollinators during its spring to summer blooming period. Birds may eat the small seeds that develop after flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Squawroot need?
- Squawroot grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Squawroot bloom?
- Squawroot blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Squawroot native?
- Squawroot (Conopholis americana) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 21 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Squawroot HOA-friendly?
- Squawroot 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 Squawroot? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz