Striga asiatica
TAXONOMY
FamilyOrobanchaceae
GenusStriga
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Striga asiatica, commonly known as Asiatic witchweed, is a hemiparasitic annual plant in the family Orobanchaceae. It is native to seasonally dry tropical climates and is known for its parasitic relationship with host plants, often causing significant damage to crops. The plant is characterized by its small, brightly colored flowers and its ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Asiatic Witchweed
Buchnera Aquatica
Buchnera Coccinea
Campuleia Coccinea
Buchnera asiatica
Striga asiatica var. asiatica
Striga asiatica var. humilis
Striga coccinea
Striga eustriga
Striga hirsuta
Striga hirsuta var. humilis
Striga lutea
Striga lutea var. bicolor
Striga parvula
Striga phoenicea
Striga pusilla
Striga zangebarica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Striga asiatica requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. As a hemiparasitic plant, it relies on a host plant for nutrients, making it challenging to cultivate independently. Regular monitoring and management are essential to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.Soil
Striga asiatica prefers sandy, well-draining soil. It can tolerate nutrient-poor conditions, which is typical of its native habitat. Ensuring good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which the plant does not tolerate well.Fertilizer
Striga asiatica does not require additional fertilization as it derives nutrients from its host plant. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental and may encourage the spread of the plant to unwanted areas.Repotting
Repotting is not applicable for Striga asiatica as it is typically grown outdoors and relies on a host plant for survival. Managing its spread in the field is more relevant than repotting.Propagation
Propagation of Striga asiatica occurs through seeds. The seeds are tiny and can remain dormant in the soil for several years. They germinate in response to chemical signals from the roots of potential host plants. Careful management is required to control its spread.Pruning
Pruning is not typically required for Striga asiatica. However, removing the plant before it sets seed can help manage its spread and reduce its impact on host crops.Toxicity
Striga asiatica is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its parasitic nature can cause significant damage to agricultural crops, leading to economic losses.Additional
Striga asiatica is considered a serious agricultural pest in many regions. Effective management strategies include crop rotation, use of resistant crop varieties, and biological control methods. Understanding its life cycle and ecological requirements is crucial for controlling its spread and minimizing its impact on agriculture.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
