Striga

Striga, also known as witchweed, is a parasitic plant that primarily affects cereal crops like maize and millet in Africa. It attaches to the roots of host plants, extracting water and nutrients, which severely hampers plant growth and reduces crop yields. Striga is difficult to control because it produces a large number of tiny seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for years, waiting for suitable host plants to grow nearby. Its infestation poses a significant threat to food security in affected regions, making management strategies crucial for sustainable agriculture.