Fauna
Plant

American Cancer-root

Conopholis americana

Also known as Bear Corn, Squawroot, Bumeh

American cancer-root derives all its nutrients directly from the root systems of oak and beech trees. Emerging above ground as dense, yellowish-brown clusters reminiscent of pinecones or cobs of corn, it spends years developing underground galls before flowering. These specialized plants provide a vital seasonal food source for black bears waking from winter hibernation.

ParasiticWildflowerWoodland
American Cancer-root reference1 / 7
(c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyParasitic (root holoparasite of oaks and beeches)
Predators
  • American Black Bear
  • White-tailed Deer
  • Small Mammals
ThreatsHabitat loss, clear-cutting of host trees, soil compaction
HabitatsDeciduous forests, oak-hickory woods, beech groves
Life spanPerennial (lives up to 10 or more years attached to host roots)
Classification
  1. OrderLamiales
  2. FamilyOrobanchaceae
  3. GenusConopholis
  4. SpeciesConopholis americana
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Look in Spring: Scan the forest floor around mature oak trees from mid to late spring.
  • Leave in Place: Avoid digging up clusters, as underground galls are permanently fused to host tree roots.
  • Observe Wildlife: Keep an eye out for feeding signs, as bears often claw up clusters early in the season.
Related species
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