I think its one of the broomrapes, Orobanche purpurea maybe

I also think a broomrape is a possibilty. They are parasitic plants and lack chlorophyll.

Should I dig deep to find the roots and hoik it out then? Not liking the sound of it being parasitic.

Nope leave it alone, the Broomrape has a symbiotic relationship with whichever plant it is near... And, to be realistic, I doubt you could dig it all out!

Always wanted to see one of these! Thank you.

Stera, I only noticed it because I was getting Lilac suckers out with a hand trowel and this is under the shrub next to it! I really don't know anything about Broomrape so shall have to investigate later.

I'd be pleased to find one in my garden as they are interesting plants & don't harm their host plant.

Not sure which one it is, but general information here https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orobanche_minor

Conservationists are anxious to preserve these, if that's any help to how you feel about this plant, but some of them are only there for a year, sometimes longer. Usually only a problem if they become extensive in an area, or in agricultural areas.

Agree Feverfew, I'd be delighted to see in our garden!

Am I being really thick then in thinking the Broomrape depletes the host plant of energy? From all the positive comments , I guess not!!

No your not being 'think' but the Broomrape and the host plant have a symbiotic relationship, each helps the other.

I'm a bit puzzled as to what its growing in association with myself - maybe the lilac roots? Not sure, maybe its been there before and you just never noticed it

The Lilac was planted as a small cutting in 2007 and the Brachyglottis to the right of it in 2011 ... I haven't noticed the Broomrape ever before.

I do get down on hands and knees occasionally to remove the Lilac suckers ... not a pleasurable job!

Ah well at least some of the Broomrapes are annuals so this could have popped up for the year and will not be seen again/