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Description
Pedicularis Groenlandica, commonly known as Greenland Lousewort, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. This perennial herbaceous plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and has a woody stem. It blooms in late spring to summer, producing dense spikes of small, tubular purple flowers. The plant has a unique pollination mechanism where it attracts bumblebees by mimicking their scent and color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis Groenlandica has a distinctive appearance with its tubular purple flowers arranged in dense spikes. The plant has a woody stem, with leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape and have serrated edges. The leaves are arranged in a basal rosette, with the stem leaves being alternate. The plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and is usually found in moist areas in the tundra or alpine regions.
Care Guide
To care for Pedicularis Groenlandica, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may need more frequent watering in this condition. The plant is hardy in zones 2 to 7 and can withstand temperatures as low as -50 °C.Watering should be done regularly, but not excessively, to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Fertilization is not necessary as the plant can obtain nutrients from the surrounding soil. However, if necessary, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis Groenlandica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids and spider mites, which can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. To prevent this, it is recommended to inspect the plant regularly and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Habitat
Pedicularis Groenlandica is native to the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is usually found in moist areas in the tundra or alpine regions, growing in bogs, meadows, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: How does Pedicularis Groenlandica attract pollinators?
A: Pedicularis Groenlandica attracts bumblebees by mimicking their scent and color.
Q: What is the blooming season of Pedicularis Groenlandica?
A: Pedicularis Groenlandica blooms in late spring to summer.
Q: What type of soil does Pedicularis Groenlandica prefer?
A: Pedicularis Groenlandica prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: Can Pedicularis Groenlandica tolerate full sun?
A: Pedicularis Groenlandica can tolerate full sun but may need more frequent watering in this condition.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the same family as Pedicularis Groenlandica:
- Pedicularis Canadensis
- Pedicularis Densiflora
- Pedicularis Langsdorffii
- Pedicularis Racemosa
References
- Flora of North America: Pedicularis Groenlandica
- Alaska Natural Heritage Program: Pedicularis Groenlandica
- Plant Talk: Pedicularis Groenlandica
