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Common Cow-wheat

Melampyrum pratense, Orobanchaceae

Zones
3–8
Layer
Herbaceous
Lifespan
Annual
Growth
Moderate

Guild Roles

Pollinator AttractorBeneficial Insect HabitatPest Confuser

Growing Conditions

Sun

Partial Shade (preferred)Full Sun (tolerated)

Water

Moderate (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

4.5 – 7

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Hairy Canary CloverDorycnium hirsutum
Nitrogen Fixation

Antagonistic Plants

Giant Red PaintbrushCastilleja miniata

Both are hemiparasitic plants that may compete for suitable host plants and produce compounds that affect nearby vegetation

Hillside BlueberryVaccinium pallidum

Common cow-wheat may parasitize blueberry roots, potentially reducing blueberry vigor

Uses

Functions

Semi-Parasitic Nitrogen CyclingWildlife HabitatPollinator SupportCompanion Planting

Edible Parts

Seeds

Medicinal Uses

Eye ConditionsWoundsInflammation

Common Questions

What zones does Common Cow-wheat grow in?

Common Cow-wheat grows in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8.

What are good companion plants for Common Cow-wheat?

Good companions for Common Cow-wheat include Hairy Canary Clover.

Design guilds with Common Cow-wheat and see companion relationships visually.

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