Pedicularis Verticillata

Description

Pedicularis Verticillata, commonly known as whorled lousewort, is an herbaceous plant belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. It is native to North America and grows in moist meadows, mountain slopes, and stream banks. The plant has a unique leaf arrangement, with its leaves arranged in whorls around the stem. It blooms in the summer months, producing beautiful clusters of pink or purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Pedicularis Verticillata plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and has a slender, hairy stem. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem, with each whorl containing 4-6 leaves. The leaves are pinnately divided, with toothed edges, and are typically 2-4 cm long. The flowers are tubular and have a two-lipped corolla that is pink or purple in color. The plant blooms from June to August.

Care Guide

Water: Pedicularis Verticillata grows best in moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Pedicularis Verticillata prefers partial shade to full sun.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pedicularis Verticillata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overcrowding of plants, provide good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.

Habitat

Pedicularis Verticillata is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, mountain slopes, and stream banks. It prefers a cool, moist climate and can be found in elevations ranging from 1,500 to 10,000 feet.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pedicularis Verticillata poisonous to humans or pets?
A: No, Pedicularis Verticillata is not toxic to humans or pets.Q: Can Pedicularis Verticillata be grown indoors?
A: No, Pedicularis Verticillata is best grown outdoors in its natural habitat.Q: How often should I water Pedicularis Verticillata?
A: Pedicularis Verticillata prefers consistent moisture, so the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may vary depending on the climate and soil conditions.Q: How long does it take for Pedicularis Verticillata to bloom?
A: Pedicularis Verticillata typically blooms in the summer months, from June to August.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Pedicularis Verticillata:

• Pedicularis groenlandica
• Pedicularis canadensis
• Pedicularis bracteosa

References

• “Pedicularis verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
• “Whorled Lousewort (Pedicularis verticillata).” Minnesota Wildflowers. https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info.
• “Pedicularis Verticillata.” Plant Finder. https://www.monrovia.com.