Pest Photo

Dr. Reuven Jacobsohn, Agricultural Research Organization, Bugwood.org

Alfalfa broomrape

Orobanche aegyptiaca

Alfalfa broomrape (Orobanche aegyptiaca) is a parasitic plant of broadleaf crops and legumes.

Broomrape is a leafless plant that appear as clumps of stems near the base of host plants. The growing Broomrape attaches itself to the roots of its host and absorbs nutrients, stunting the host and reducing yields. Known hosts include bell peppers, cabbage, carrot, celery, eggplant, melons, tomatoes, and various legume species.