To some degree Smooth False Foxglove (Aureolaria laevigata) is a parasite, depending a bit on its host plant, the mighty Oak Tree. It can be referred to as a partial plant parasite, a semiparasite, or a hemiparasite. This means, it is not entirely dependent upon the roots of an Oak Tree for all its sustenance. This plant has chlorophyll and performs photosynthesis. It’s sort of a parasite. But not entirely.
This is in contrast to plants that are entirely parasitic – holoparasites. A holoparasite does not perform photosynthesis and depends exclusively on their host plant for nourishment. This native to eastern North America, Smooth False Foxglove uses roots called haustoria to connect to the roots of its host Oak Tree to absorb sugars and proteins. Along with its host Oak Tree, Smooth False Foxglove flourishes.
