This is a parasitic plant that attaches itself to the host plant by their roots. They have a lack of chlorophyll and therefore have no green colouration.
Found in Southern England, mainly in Kent in sand dunes and coastal areas.
They are heat loving plants (thermophilic) and are choosy in their habitat. They like dry, sandy soil that is poor in nutrients and they are very susceptible to minor climate changes and are vulnerable to agricultural "improvements".
Rare and listed as vulnerable.
