PARASITIC FLOWERING PLANTS ON CULTIVATED PLANTS IN JORDAN-THE PRESENT STATUS AND MANAGEMENT

Parasitic flowering plants are problematic species, posing high concern to farmers, and potential threat to agriculture and forestry in Jordan. Recent field research revealed the occurrence of 8 parasitic genera belonging to 6 plant families in the country. Parasitic plants found belong to the families Orobanchaceae (Orobanche and Cistanche), Cuscutaceae (Cuscuta), Santalaceae (Osyris and Thesium), Cynomoriaceae (Cynomorium), Viscaceae (Viscum) and Loranthaceae (Loranthus). Parasites were found attacking a wide host range of plants of wild herbs, field crops, forage plants, rangeland shrubs and forest and fruit trees. They are spread in different biogeographical regions with clear variations in their ecological tolerance. Many of the hosts recorded and certain parasitic species are reported for the first time. Possible management of these parasites based on recent research findings, some recommendations and experiences of local farmers are discussed.