Root parasites

Exocarpos bidwillii is a native shrub which parasitises the roots of other plants. Photo: Mike Thorsen.Root parasites are rare among flowering plants in New Zealand.The following species are all root parasites:

• Dactylanthus taylorii
• Mida salicifolia
• Exocarpos bidwillii
• Euphrasia spp.

For more information about root parasites see:

• Philipson, W. R. ‘Some observations on root parasitism in New Zealand.’ Trans. Roy. Soc. N. Z. 87: 1-3.
• Root parasites by John Dawson (from Forest Vines to Snow Tussocks)
• Hill, H. 1926. Dactylanthus Taylori.Order Balanophoreae; Tribe Synomorieae. Transactions and proceedings of the Royal Society, Vol. 56.