Bastard Toadflax (Comandra Umbellata) is a perennial herb in the Santalaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Comandra umbellata is a perennial hemiparasitic herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its small white flowers and drupe-like fruit.

Bastard Toadflax

Bastard Toadflax

Comandra Umbellata

Comandra umbellata is a perennial hemiparasitic herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its small white flowers and drupe-like fruit.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
3-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, loamy, rocky
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, ecological niche as hemiparasite

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Bastard Toadflax

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Bastard Toadflax
Bastard Toadflax detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Santalaceae
Genus:Comandra