Contents
1. Description
Aureolaria Pedicularia is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the genus Aureolaria and family Orobanchaceae. It is commonly known as Fern-leaved False Foxglove or Yellow False Foxglove. The plant is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in moist and shady areas such as forest edges, rocky slopes, and riverbanks.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Aureolaria |
3. Appearance
Aureolaria Pedicularia grows up to 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has a clump-forming growth habit and produces erect stems that are covered with fine hairs. The leaves of the plant are alternate, lance-shaped, and divided into 3-5 lobes, giving them a fern-like appearance. The flowers are tubular, 1-2 inches long, and can be yellow or cream-colored with purple spots. They bloom from late spring to early summer and are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
4. Care Guide
Water: Aureolaria Pedicularia prefers moist soil and needs regular watering during the growing season. However, it is important to avoid waterlogging the soil to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight: Aureolaria Pedicularia grows best in partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Aureolaria Pedicularia is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust if grown in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant.
6. Habitat
Aureolaria Pedicularia is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in moist and shady areas such as forest edges, rocky slopes, and riverbanks. It can also be grown in gardens as a woodland or shade plant.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Aureolaria Pedicularia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces attractive tubular flowers that are a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Aureolaria Pedicularia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system and provide adequate moisture and nutrients.
Q: How do I propagate Aureolaria Pedicularia?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy root system.
Q: Can Aureolaria Pedicularia be grown as a houseplant?
A: No, the plant requires partial to full shade and cool temperatures that are difficult to replicate indoors.
9. Related Plants
- Aureolaria Flava
- Aureolaria Laevigata
- Aureolaria Patula
- Aureolaria Virginica
10. References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aureolaria pedicularia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286354
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Aureolaria pedicularia. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aureolaria-pedicularia/
- The Spruce. (2021). Fernleaf False Foxglove. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/fernleaf-false-foxglove-4127212
