Whorled Lousewort
pedicularis verticillata
Also known as: ["Whorled Lousewort","Verticillate Lousewort"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to northern regions, characterized by whorled leaves and distinctive tubular flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Pedicularis |
| Botanical Name: | Pedicularis verticillata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, stream banks, or partially shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and may go dormant in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in full dormancy.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F or 15–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat moss and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as needed; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged; avoid wetting foliage; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in dormant periods (fall-winter) to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; move indoors in freezing temperatures; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall; increased water demand without adequate hydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in dormant periods.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Pedicularis verticillata, which can lead to liver damage with repeated exposure. The plant poses a greater risk due to cats' grooming habits and potential ingestion of plant material.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Pedicularis verticillata can cause liver toxicity in dogs if ingested regularly. While acute poisoning is rare, chronic exposure may lead to significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPedicularis verticillata contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The plant's effects are generally mild but can accumulate over time, leading to more severe physiological impacts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pedicularis verticillata toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soils in partial shade, often found in meadows and forest edges.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, and modern medicinal applications are not well-documented.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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