Pedicularis Kerneri
Contents
Description
Pedicularis Kerneri, also known as Kern’s Lousewort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to western North America and is commonly found in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The plant has a unique appearance, with tall stems that can grow up to 2 feet in height and clusters of small, purple flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis Kerneri has a unique appearance with its tall stems and clusters of small, purple flowers. The stems are covered in small, green leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The flowers are tubular in shape and can grow up to 1 inch in length. They are a deep shade of purple and are arranged in a dense, terminal spike. The plant blooms from June to August and can grow up to 2 feet in height.
Care Guide
To care for Pedicularis Kerneri, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. This includes:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month to promote growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not like heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as profusely.- Hardiness Zones: Pedicularis Kerneri is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis Kerneri is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid this problem.
Habitat
Pedicularis Kerneri is native to western North America and is commonly found in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It prefers moist, rocky soils and can be found growing in meadows, along streams and rivers, and in open forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pedicularis Kerneri a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Kerneri is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Pedicularis Kerneri be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Kerneri can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with the right conditions, including well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: Does Pedicularis Kerneri attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Kerneri is attractive to pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Pedicularis Kerneri be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Pedicularis Kerneri can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the early summer.
Related Plants
– Pedicularis Groenlandica- Pedicularis Racemosa- Pedicularis Canadensis- Pedicularis Bracteosa
References
– “Pedicularis Kerneri” Wildflower.org. Accessed on 12 October 2021. – “Pedicularis Kerneri” USDA Plants Database. Accessed on 12 October 2021. – “Kern’s Lousewort” Sierra Nevada Wildflowers. Accessed on 12 October 2021.
