Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha
Contents
Description
Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha, commonly known as bird’s beak lousewort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. Native to the Himalayas, this plant grows up to a height of 30-60 cm and blooms from June to August. The flowers are yellow-orange in color and are arranged in a dense spike-like inflorescence.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
The leaves of Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha are lance-shaped and arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The stem of the plant is erect and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are tubular, measuring around 2-3 cm in length, and have a curved beak-like structure at the tip. The corolla of the flower is two-lipped, with the upper lip being short and the lower lip being three-lobed. The calyx of the flower is five-lobed.
Care Guide
Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha prefers moist and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full to partial sunlight and is hardy in zones 5-8. The plant needs regular watering during the growing season, but it is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilization can be done in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha are aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in alpine meadows and rocky areas at elevations of 3,500-5,000 meters. It prefers cool and moist conditions and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: While Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha is not difficult to grow, it may not be the best choice for a beginner gardener as it has specific soil and watering requirements.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha?
A: Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha should be fertilized once in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha tolerate shade?
A: Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha can tolerate some shade, but it prefers full to partial sunlight.
Q: What pests commonly affect Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha?
A: Aphids and spider mites are common pests that affect Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha.
Related Plants
- Pedicularis Contorta
- Pedicularis Groenlandica
- Pedicularis Langsdorffii
- Pedicularis Siphonantha
References
- “Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277623&isprofile=0&basic=pedicularis%20ornithorhyncha>.
- “Bird’s Beak Lousewort (Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha).” Backyard Gardener. Accessed 23 July 2021. <http://www.backyardgardener.com/plantname/pda_46e6.html>.
- “Pedicularis Ornithorhyncha.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 23 July 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/pedicularis-ornithorhyncha>.
