Common toothwort

Lathraea squamaria

Also known as Cut-leaved toothwort, Crinkleroot, Pepper root, Clandestina squamaria

Native Plants · Parasitic Plant · Holoparasite · Woodland · Spring Ephemeral · Rare · European Native · Specialist · Orobanchaceae · Lathraea · Unusual

Common toothwort is a fascinating holoparasitic plant that obtains all its water and nutrients from the roots of host trees such as hazel, alder, or elm, making it virtually impossible to cultivate in a conventional garden setting. It produces striking pale pink to white flower spikes in early spring, emerging briefly before dying back entirely underground for the rest of the year. This plant is best appreciated in its natural woodland habitat and is not suitable for home cultivation without an