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Description
Pedicularis Attollens, commonly known as Indian Warrior or Lousewort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to North America and grows in damp, shaded areas such as riverbanks, meadows, and forests. The plant can reach up to 1.5 feet in height and has a unique appearance with its bright red tubular flowers and feather-like leaves. The plant is a hemiparasite, meaning it can attach to the roots of other plants and get some of its nutrients.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis Attollens has a unique appearance with its bright red tubular flowers and feather-like leaves. The plant can reach up to 1.5 feet in height and has a slightly hairy stem. The leaves are pinnately divided and have a fern-like appearance. The flowers are arranged in dense spikes and bloom from June to August. The flowers are tubular in shape and are a bright red color with yellow tips.
Care Guide
Pedicularis Attollens is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. You can add some organic matter to the soil once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, so avoid planting it in direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis Attollens is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common issues that may occur:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distortion and discoloration of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Pedicularis Attollens is native to North America and can be found in damp, shaded areas such as riverbanks, meadows, and forests. The plant prefers moist soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pedicularis Attollens poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous.
Q: Can Pedicularis Attollens be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space and moisture.
Q: Does Pedicularis Attollens attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Pedicularis Attollens be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require much fertilization. You can add some organic matter to the soil once a year in the spring.
Related Plants
- Pedicularis bracteosa
- Pedicularis groenlandica
- Pedicularis canadensis
- Pedicularis racemosa
References
- “Pedicularis Attollens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b566
- “Pedicularis Attollens.” North Carolina State University Extension. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/pedicularis-attollens/
- “Pedicularis Attollens.” Plant Database. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pedicularis+attollens
