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Description
Pedicularis Atropurpurea, also known as Lousewort or Purple Lousewort, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. This plant is native to the western regions of North America, and it is found in high altitude meadows, forests, and alpine slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis Atropurpurea grows up to 60 cm in height and has a single stem that is covered with fine hair. The flowers of this plant are long, tubular, and bright purple or red in color. The leaves are deeply divided and have a fern-like appearance. This plant blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Pedicularis Atropurpurea requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers moist but not soggy soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize this plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This plant prefers partial shade to full sun and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -40°C. Pedicularis Atropurpurea is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis Atropurpurea is generally a pest-free plant. However, it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pedicularis Atropurpurea is native to the western regions of North America, including Alaska, Yukon, British Columbia, and the western United States. This plant grows in high altitude meadows, forests, and alpine slopes. It is often found growing in association with other alpine plants such as Lupinus argenteus, Erigeron pinnatisectus, and Eritrichium aretioides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pedicularis Atropurpurea a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Atropurpurea has been used in traditional medicine for its sedative and pain-relieving properties.
Q: Can Pedicularis Atropurpurea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Atropurpurea can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Pedicularis Atropurpurea be watered?
A: Pedicularis Atropurpurea prefers moist but not soggy soil and requires regular watering during the growing season.
Q: What is the blooming period of Pedicularis Atropurpurea?
A: Pedicularis Atropurpurea blooms from June to August.
Related Plants
- Pedicularis groenlandica
- Pedicularis bracteosa
- Pedicularis racemosa
- Pedicularis crenulata
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Pedicularis atropurpurea. Retrieved from https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242415246
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Pedicularis atropurpurea. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PEAT2
- Montana Field Guide. (n.d.). Pedicularis atropurpurea. Retrieved from https://fieldguide.mt.gov/species/1563
