Smooth False Foxglove Aureolaria laevigata

Smooth false foxglove, is a parasitic flowering plant in the Orobanchaceae or broomrape family.  Most members of this genus are fully or partially parasitic and found on the roots of host plants in dry moist woods and thickets. This plant is semi-parasitic on the roots of oak trees and has a sprawling semi-erect growth habit that can resemble a vine.  It is native to the eastern United States and spans from Pennsylvania to Georgia but can also be found west to Mississippi, and northeast to Ohio. Its native habitat is in woody mountainous regions where it enjoys partial sun, dry conditions, and sandy or rocky soil so while it is found throughout North Carolina, it is most common in the Piedmont and mountainous regions. Due to its parasitic characteristics, smooth false foxglove thrives when it is planted near an oak tree as a host plant. 

The bright yellow flowers and shiny green leaves resemble Gelsemium sempervirens but the stems on Aureolaria laevigata are square not round.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems