Aphyllon validum subsp. validum
Rock creek broomrape, Rock Creek Broomrape, Rock Creek broomrape
Photo: parent species Aphyllon validum · Photo by Chez Brungraber
Family: Orobanchaceae · Type: Herb · Native
Conservation status: CNPS 1B.2
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum (Rock creek broomrape) is a native California herb in the Orobanchaceae family, recognized by stout stem not enlarged at base, decomposed granite habitat, 10-35 cm.
Rock creek broomrape is a rare (CNPS 1B.2) California native parasitic perennial found in areas with decomposed granite at elevations of 1,250 to 2,000 meters. Flowering from May to September, this plant produces flowers with subtle coloration, approximately 12 to 14 millimeters long and sparsely hairy at the corolla sinuses. Growing 10 to 35 centimeters tall with generally stout stems that are not enlarged at the base, it has fine glandular hairs approximately 0.1 millimeters long. Its growth pattern reflects its parasitic nature, with stems emerging from host plant roots and displaying minimal independent structural characteristics. The plant's reproductive structures feature complex internal details, including glabrous lower throat folds and bare filament bases.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: Geographically isolated; stout stem not enlarged at base, decomposed granite habitat, 10-35 cm
Habitat and range
Habitat: Decomposed granite, on
Elevation: 1250-2000 m
California counties: Inyo, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura
Bloom period
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum blooms May-Sep.
Conservation status
CNPS 1B.2
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 validum subsp. validum native to California?
Yes. Aphyllon validum subsp. validum is native to California (recorded as native).
When does Aphyllon validum subsp. validum bloom?
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum blooms May-Sep.
Where in California does Aphyllon validum subsp. validum grow?
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum occurs in Inyo, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura, at elevations of 1250-2000 m.
What plant family does Aphyllon validum subsp. validum belong to?
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum is in the Orobanchaceae family, genus Aphyllon.
Is Aphyllon validum subsp. validum rare or endangered?
Aphyllon validum subsp. validum carries California Rare Plant Rank 1B.2, state rank S2.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos · CDFW CNDDB
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.