When do parasites typically send up flowers?

Parasites, like many plants, typically send up flowers when they need to reproduce. Flowering is a crucial phase in the life cycle of a plant because it allows for sexual reproduction. In many cases, parasites rely on host plants for nutrients and support, but they must still produce flowers to ensure they can create seeds and continue their species. The timing of flowering is often optimized for the availability of pollinators or environmental conditions that facilitate reproduction.

While some plants may exhibit behaviors that could be loosely related to receiving sunlight or nutrient absorption, these are generally part of their growth and survival strategies rather than directly linked to the act of flowering. Reproduction is a primary driver for flowering, ensuring the survival of the species despite the challenges of a parasitic lifestyle.