Cuscuta
(etymology very doubtful). Dodder. SYN. Pfeifferia. ORD. Convolvulaceae. Leafless, twining, parasitic herbs. Flowers in bracteate heads, rarely spicate; corolla urceolate or campanulate; limb five, rarely four-cleft, marcescent. The stalks twine contrary to the sun's apparent motion, sending out a number of little vesicles, which attach themselves to the supporting plant. The flowers of many species are extremely pretty and interesting, and, in some cases, very fragrant; but, from the peculiar habit of the plants, they will never become popular. All may be grown by simply sowing the seed with those of the plants they most affect, though some thrive on almost any plant. The following are the best:--STOVE: americana, Hookeri, odorata, and verrucosa. GREENHOUSE: australis, chilensis, monogyna, and reflexa. HARDY: macrocarpa, Epilinum, Epithymum, europaea, and Trifolii. The last four are British plants.