Aphyllon validum subsp. validum

Rock creek broomrape, Rock Creek Broomrape, Rock Creek broomrape

Family: Orobanchaceae · Type: perennial · Native

Conservation status: CNPS 1B.2

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.

Habitat: Decomposed granite, on

Bloom period: May-Sep

Elevation: 1250-2000 m

California counties: Inyo, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Jepson eFlora, Cal-IPC, and more.