Cassytha

/kæˈsɪðə/ noun

Definition

A genus of parasitic plants in the dodder family that lacks roots and wraps around host plants to steal nutrients.

Etymology

From Greek 'kassytha' or possibly from a Semitic root, named by Linnaeus for this unusual parasitic plant genus found in tropical regions.

Kelly Says

Cassytha plants are like botanical vampires—they have no roots, no leaves, and no chlorophyll, but they've evolved to wrap around other plants and siphon out exactly what they need to survive.

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