Two California Manroots
by Bruce Homer-Smith

Manroots are vines that grow quickly after spring rains. They get their name from their large underground tubers that can weigh 100 pounds. There are two common species in California · Coastal Manroot (Marah oregana) and · California Manroot (Marah fabaea) Here’s how to tell them apart:		Photo © Neil Kramer
Coastal Manroot (Marah oregana) Found mostly along the Northern California coast	California Manroot (Marah fabaea) More common and more widespread.
Photo by Steve Matson Flowers are cupped at the base They’re always white	Photo © Neil Kramer Flowers are not cupped at the base. They’re yellow-green, cream or white
Photo by Steve Matson The pointy fruit is often striped. It grows to 3 inches across. It sometimes has prickles but not near the point.	Photo © Neil Kramer The fruit is spherical. It grows to 2 inches across. It is covered with prickles.

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