Which of the following is a total stem parasite?

Concept

Parasitic flowering plants are classified along two independent axes: where they attach to the host (stem or root) and how completely they depend on the host (total or partial).

A total parasite, also called a holoparasite, lacks adequate photosynthetic independence and draws organic nutrients as well as water and minerals from the host; a partial parasite retains chlorophyll and makes its own organic food.

Application

Cuscuta twines around the host stem and sends haustoria into its vascular tissues. Because it depends on that stem connection for both manufactured food and water-mineral supply, it is classified as a total stem parasite.

Contrast

• Viscum is a partial stem parasite because its green tissues can photosynthesize.

• Rafflesia is conventionally classified as a total root parasite in this school-level scheme.

• Santalum is a partial root parasite that obtains water and minerals through host roots while retaining photosynthetic ability.

Cross-check

Separating attachment site from nutritional dependence confirms that only Cuscuta occupies the total-stem category.

Result

Therefore, the answer is Cuscuta.