Cytinus

/ˈsɪtɪnəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of parasitic flowering plants without chlorophyll that feed on the roots of host plants.

Etymology

From Greek origin, possibly related to 'kytos' (cell), named in botanical taxonomy. The genus that gives its name to the Cytinaceae family of parasitic plants.

Kelly Says

Cytinus plants look like colorful flowers but are actually root-sucking parasites—some species have brilliant red or orange flowers that have nothing to do with photosynthesis since they can't make food from sunlight! It's a brilliant evolutionary deception to attract pollinators.

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