Bear cone (Conopholis americana) is also known as Cancer Root. It’s a strange and fascinating little plant that looks like a pinecone, produces no chlorophyll of its own, and lives mostly underground as a parasite on the roots of oak trees, seemingly without harming them. It’s also known to have medicinal properties. Keep reading to learn more about the bear cone plant.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Conopholis americana, the American cancer-root, bumeh or bear corn, is a perennial, non-photosynthesizing (or “achlorophyllous’ ‘) parasitic plant. It is from the family Orobanchaceae and more recently from the genus Conopholis but also listed as Orobanche, native but not endemic to North America. When blooming, it resembles a pine cone or cob of corn growing from the roots of mostly oak and beech trees.
Conopholis americana is parasitic on the roots of woody plants, especially oaks (genus Quercus) and beech (genus Fagus). The only part of the plant generally seen is the cone-shaped inflorescence, which appears above ground in spring. The entire structure is a yellowish color, turning to brown. It achieves heights of 10 centimeters (4 in) to 20 centimeters (8 in) tall.
Stems and leaves
The plant has stout and unbranched 1.3 centimeters (0.5 in) to 2.5 centimeters (1 in) thick stems. Since C. americana does not photosynthesize it also does not have true leaves; it has instead simple, ovate, tiny scales 1.3 centimeters (0.5 in) long and brown, which appear at the base of each flower.
Flowers
Conopholis americana produces spikes of yellow to cream flowers densely crowded all around the stem. Each flower is 5-parted, 8 millimeters (0.3 in) to 13 millimeters (0.5 in) long, tubular with a swollen base and facing downwards. As the flowering spike matures it begins to wither and becomes brown throughout the summer and often persisting through the winter, by which time it has become shriveled and black. There is no noticeable floral scent.
The bear cone flower is pollinated by flies and bees and eventually produces a round white seed that falls to the ground to begin the process again. The parent bear cone will survive as a perennial for as many as six more years.
Fruits and reproduction
Each flower is replaced by a seed capsule that is longer than it is wide and contains many small seeds. This plant spreads to new locations by reseeding itself.
Roots
The root system is parasitic on the roots of oak trees (Quercus spp.); dependent on the host tree for its nourishment, the suckers of the parasitic roots cause the formation of large rounded knobs on the roots of the host tree.
II. How to Grow and Care
American Cancer-Root is a non-photosynthetic, parasitic plant that obtains its nutrients from the roots of host trees, making cultivation outside native habitats challenging. Special care is required to ensure the associated host tree is present and healthy. Watering is dictated by the host’s needs; overwatering can harm both the host and American Cancer-Root.
Watering
Adapted to the deciduous forests of North America, American Cancer-Root thrives in conditions where moisture is consistent but not excessive. This species exhibits a preference for soil that mimics its native woodland habitat—moist yet well-drained, avoiding waterlogged conditions. Watering should align with this balance, typically necessitating hydration once every week. As an obligate parasitic plant, American Cancer-Root derives moisture and nutrients from its host trees, which influences its watering needs. Predominantly found outdoors due to its parasitic nature, American Cancer-Root benefits from natural rainfall patterns and requires less frequent manual watering than many other plants; it has adapted to synchronize with the seasonal water availability of its environment.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing american Cancer-Root is a delicate process, utilizing balanced nutrition fertilizers. Optimal application frequency is during active growth in spring and fall. The amount should align with American Cancer-Root’s size and soil fertility level. Benefits include enhanced vitality and potential flowering support. Seasonal variations must dictate fertilization changes, with minimal to no feeding during dormancy. Special care: Avoid over-fertilization to protect american Cancer-Root’s sensitive ecosystem. For effective fertilization, ensure even distribution and incorporate into the soil surface gently.
Propagation
American Cancer-Root can be propagated effectively during Spring and Summer via cuttings. The process may be moderately challenging. Successful propagation is often signaled by new growth. Maintaining moisture and warmth is crucial for best results.
Transplanting
The optimal time to transplant american Cancer-Root is during late winter to early spring (S3-S5). This gives the plant ample time to establish itself before the onset of hotter temperatures. American Cancer-Root prefers shady, well-drained locations. Remember to maintain soil moisture post-transplant.
III. Uses and Benefits
Bear cone is edible and it has a long history of medicinal use as an astringent. It supposedly gets its name from Native Americans’ use of it to treat the symptoms of menopause. It has been used to treat hemorrhages and headaches as well as bleeding of the bowel and uterus. The stalk can also be dried and brewed into a tea.
