American Cancer-Root [Conopholis americana] found near the Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 437, along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, on 25 July 2013. It’s a member of the Broom-rape (Orobanchaceae) family. Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide, pages 18-19, says its yellow flowers bloom in late spring and is a “parasite on tree roots, especially oaks.” The guide lists it’s older common name of Squawroot. These photos show the plants past their peak, as the flowers have turned brown.
USDA Plants Listing: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=COAM
American Cancer-Root on Blue Ridge Parkway – 25 July 2013
American Cancer-Root (more) – 25 July 2013
