Conopholis americana

Common Names

American Cancer Root, Bear Corn, Squawroot, Cancer Root, Bumeh

Summary

American cancer-root is a native eastern North American holoparasite that relies on oak roots rather than photosynthesis. It is leafless and non-photosynthetic, growing largely underground for years before surfacing as an unbranched cone-shaped spike 2–8 inches tall with a dense spike of cream-colored flowers, the inflorescence bearing scale-like leaves at the base and turning brown with age.

For cultivation, propagation is by seed and requires oak hosts; grows in organically rich, well-drained forest soils; hardiness zones 3a–9b; maintenance is low; commonly known as bear corn or squawroot; ethnobotanical uses include food and for treating female problems by Native Americans.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-8 inches

Spread

Less than 1 inch

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3a-9b

Sunlight Requirements

Very variable, indifferent to light levels, tolerates full sun, partial sun, partial shade, or full shade.

Soil Type

Deep, rich, humus-rich loamy soil that is consistently moist and well-drained, with high organic matter and a slightly acidic to neutral pH (~5.5).

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

5.5-5.5

Bloom Color

Cream to golden yellow

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

No foliage; lacks chlorophyll.

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage; no leaves.

Leaf Lifecycle

Other

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees