Contents
Description
Pedicularis, commonly known as lousewort, is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the Orobanchaceae family. These plants are found in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in the mountainous regions of Eurasia and North America. The genus name, Pedicularis, is derived from the Latin word ‘pediculus,’ which means louse, due to the belief that these plants could cure lice infestations.Pedicularis plants are known for their unique and attractive flowers, which come in various shades of pink, purple, and yellow. They are also known for their medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and rheumatism.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Pedicularis |
Appearance
Pedicularis plants have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other plants. They are herbaceous perennials that can grow up to three feet tall, depending on the species. The leaves are alternate, toothed, and have a fern-like appearance. The flowers are arranged in dense, terminal spikes and have a tubular shape with two lips. The upper lip is arched and the lower lip is three-lobed. The flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and yellow and are often marked with darker veins.
Care Guide
Pedicularis plants are easy to care for and require minimal attention. Here are some tips to help you care for these plants:- Water: Pedicularis plants prefer moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water them regularly, especially during the growing season.- Fertilization: These plants do not require much fertilization. You can feed them with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Pedicularis plants prefer well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, you can add organic matter to lower the pH.- Sunlight: These plants prefer partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Avoid planting them in areas with intense heat or direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Pedicularis plants are hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pedicularis plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep your plants healthy and avoid overwatering them. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the affected plants with insecticidal soap or a horticultural oil.
Habitat
Pedicularis plants are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and alpine regions. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. These plants are often found growing in association with other mountain flowers, such as gentians, primroses, and saxifrages.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Pedicularis plants toxic?
A: No, Pedicularis plants are not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Pedicularis plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pedicularis plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and they receive adequate water and sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pedicularis plants?
A: You can feed your Pedicularis plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Do Pedicularis plants require pruning?
A: No, Pedicularis plants do not require pruning. However, you can remove the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pedicularis:- Castilleja- Mimulus- Veronica- Penstemon- Euphrasia
References
– “Pedicularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 19 October 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b963.- “Pedicularis.” Flora of North America. Accessed 19 October 2021. https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=124376.
