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Description
Pedicularis Capitata, also known as the Alpine Lousewort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. The plant is native to the subalpine and alpine regions of western North America, including the Rocky Mountains, Cascade Range, and Sierra Nevada.The plant has a long stem that can grow up to 20 cm tall and is covered with small, green leaves. The flowers are purple or pink and bloom in the summer months. The plant has a distinctive odor that is similar to that of crushed mint leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis Capitata is a striking plant with beautiful purple or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are arranged in dense, spherical clusters at the top of the stem. The plant has small green leaves that are covered in fine hairs.The stem of the plant is long and slender, and can grow up to 20 cm tall. The plant has a distinctive odor that is similar to that of crushed mint leaves.
Care Guide
Pedicularis Capitata is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: This plant prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Pedicularis Capitata prefers partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis Capitata is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites or aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and well-fed, and keep an eye out for any signs of infestation.
Habitat
Pedicularis Capitata is native to the subalpine and alpine regions of western North America, including the Rocky Mountains, Cascade Range, and Sierra Nevada. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil, and it can be found growing in meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine tundra.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pedicularis Capitata a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Pedicularis Capitata is not a fast-growing plant. It grows slowly and steadily over time.
Q: Can Pedicularis Capitata be grown indoors?
A: No, Pedicularis Capitata is an outdoor plant that requires full or partial sun to thrive.
Q: Does Pedicularis Capitata require pruning?
A: No, Pedicularis Capitata does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves or flowers as needed.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pedicularis Capitata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pedicularis Capitata:
- Pedicularis Groenlandica
- Pedicularis Canadensis
- Pedicularis Racemosa
- Pedicularis Langsdorffii
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/pedicularis_capitata.shtml
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PECA13
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PECA13
