Smoothseed Alfalfa Dodder
Cuscuta approximata
Washington State Classification
Class C — Widespread, County-Selected Control
Dodder is parasitic and damaging to leguminous crops, especially alfalfa and clover.
Quick Reference
Identification
Growth Habit
Smoothseed alfafa dodder is an annual, parasitic plant that is yellow or orange or reddish. It twines about other plants and obtains nourishment from them by means of suckers.
Flowers
The flowers are in small (2 to 3 mm long), yellowish, and somewhat fleshy dense clusters.
Fruit & Seeds
The seeds are about 1/16 inch long, irregularly round with a rough texture. Dodder seeds resemble alfalfa seeds, but they can sometimes be distinguished from alfalfa seeds when they cling together in small clusters.
Impact
Dodder is parasitic and damaging to leguminous crops, especially alfalfa and clover. It also impacts vegetable and forage crops, ornamentals, native plants, and weeds. Dodder can suppress or kill the host plants.
Ecology & Spread
Habitat
Dodder is found in older farming areas, roadsides, ditches, and fields. Please click here to see a county level distribution map of smoothseed alfalfa dodder in Washington.
Spread Mechanisms
Reproduction
Dodder is an annual plant that reproduces by seed. Over 16,000 seeds are produced per plant.
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Control Methods
Mechanical
- It is easier to prevent dodder establishment, than to eradicate it. When dodder is confined to small areas, it is recommended to cut it, let it dry, and burn it.