Aphyllon tuberosum
Photo by Chez Brungraber
Family: Orobanchaceae · Type: Herb · Native
Aphyllon tuberosum is a native California herb in the Orobanchaceae family, recognized by dark purple, bulb-like base with scales, coral-like root attachment.
Aphyllon tuberosum is a California native parasitic perennial found in openings of chaparral habitats at elevations below 1,700 meters. Flowering from April to June, this plant produces yellow to purple flowers 10 to 18 millimeters long with obtuse to acute lobes. Growing 8 to 30 centimeters tall with a distinctive coral-like root attachment, it emerges with a stout stem thickened at the base and covered in overlapping scales. Its dark purple above-ground parts are white-papillate, creating a unique visual texture. The plant's unusual parasitic nature is evident in its specialized root structure and compact growth form.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: Geographically isolated; dark purple, bulb-like base with scales, coral-like root attachment
Habitat and range
Habitat: Openings in chaparral, generally on
Elevation: < 1700 m
Outside California: Baja California
Bloom period
Aphyllon tuberosum blooms Apr-Jun.
How to tell it apart
vs Orobanche: Aphyllon and Orobanche are now considered the same genus; check current taxonomy.; vs Oenothera: Aphyllon is parasitic without green leaves; Oenothera has normal green leaves and grows independently.; vs Kopsiopsis: Aphyllon is hairy with separated bracts; Kopsiopsis is hairless with tightly overlapping bracts.; vs Pholisma: Aphyllon has upright purple flower spikes; Pholisma has round white flower heads at ground level.; vs Diplacus: Aphyllon is parasitic without green leaves; Diplacus has normal green leaves and colorful snapdragon flowers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aphyllon tuberosum native to California?
Yes. Aphyllon tuberosum is native to California (recorded as native).
When does Aphyllon tuberosum bloom?
Aphyllon tuberosum blooms Apr-Jun.
What plant family does Aphyllon tuberosum belong to?
Aphyllon tuberosum is in the Orobanchaceae family, genus Aphyllon.
What habitat does Aphyllon tuberosum grow in?
Aphyllon tuberosum grows in Openings in chaparral, generally on.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · Index of California Plant Names · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-10-07
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.