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Description
Pedicularis Labradorica, commonly known as the Labrador lousewort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to North America and typically grows in moist habitats such as meadows, bogs, and stream banks. The plant has a unique appearance with its showy, deep red flowers that bloom in the summer and its hairy, toothed leaves that grow in a rosette pattern.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
The Labrador lousewort typically grows to a height of 20-60 cm and has a spread of 20-40 cm. It has hairy, toothed leaves that are 5-15 cm long and grow in a rosette pattern. The showy, deep red flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stem and bloom in the summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a two-lipped corolla. The plant produces a capsule-like fruit that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
The Labrador lousewort is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but does best in slightly acidic soil. It is important to water the plant regularly but not to overwater it as this can cause root rot. The plant does not require fertilization unless the soil is particularly poor. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Labrador lousewort is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected leaves promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
The Labrador lousewort is native to North America and can be found in moist habitats such as meadows, bogs, and stream banks. It prefers cool, damp environments and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level to 3,100 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Labrador lousewort a rare plant?
A: Yes, the Labrador lousewort is considered a rare plant and is listed as endangered in some areas.
Q: Can the Labrador lousewort be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Labrador lousewort can be grown in a container but it may not reach its full potential size.
Q: How long does it take for the Labrador lousewort to bloom?
A: The Labrador lousewort typically blooms in the summer, around June or July.
Q: Can the Labrador lousewort be propagated by cuttings?
A: No, the Labrador lousewort is typically propagated by seed.
Related Plants
- Pedicularis canadensis
- Pedicularis groenlandica
- Pedicularis lanceolata
- Pedicularis racemosa
References
- Bonvillain, C. (2010). Pedicularis labradorica. In: Fire Effects Information System. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory.
- Denford, K.E., & Cox, G.W. (1993). Pedicularis labradorica L. In: Flora of North America Editorial Committee (Eds.), Flora of North America North of Mexico, Vol. 17. Oxford University Press, New York.
- United States Department of Agriculture. (2021). Pedicularis labradorica L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PELA5.
