A rare and sinister lady

This is Ivy Broomrape. ( Orobanche hederae)

It is completely parasitic on Ivy. It has no chlorophyll of its own and takes its nutrients from the Ivy’s roots. Without the Ivy it would not exist.

The interesting thing is its rarity. It is mainly found in small patches in the south of England and around the coast of Wales. But it is rare further north and east. In fact in Halliday’s definitive Flora of Cumbria it is not listed at all.

And yet it appears to be doing well in our garden.

My extra shows that you should use everything you have to celebrate this colourful season.