Which characteristic describes dodder?

Dodder is accurately described as a parasitic plant, which is the correct choice for this question. It belongs to the genus Cuscuta and is known for its unique growth habit. Unlike many plants, dodder does not have chlorophyll and is unable to photosynthesize, which means it relies entirely on the host plants for nutrients and energy. It wraps around host plants and taps into their vascular systems to extract water and nutrients, ultimately weakening or even killing the host.

This parasitic nature is crucial because it distinguishes dodder from other plant categories. For example, being a perennial herb, annual flower, or aromatic herb refers to growth habits or sensory attributes, which do not accurately capture the fundamental biological characteristic that defines dodder's relationship with other plants. Understanding this distinction is important for managing and controlling dodder in agricultural contexts, where it can pose serious challenges to crop health.