Wood Betony
pedicularis sylvatica
Also known as: ["Wood Betony","Lousewort"]
Overview
A small herbaceous plant with distinctive hooded flowers, native to damp meadows and woodlands.
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 sylvatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, woodland edges, or shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter; peat-based mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from intense midday sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or under taller plants.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide filtered light; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage; water at the base to prevent leaf wetness.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic, pH 5.0–6.5.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool temperatures; ideal range 50–65°F (10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions year-round.
Keep in cool, shaded areas; protect from extreme heat; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during growing season; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of clumps can also be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Or divide clumps carefully.
- Replant divisions immediately.
Best Time: Early spring for seed sowing; early spring or fall for division.
Environment
Cool temperatures, high humidity, and partial shade for germination or recovery.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid division if roots are damaged.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–6 weeks to germinate; division should establish within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, sharp knife, gloves, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for spring germination; divide only when clumps are overcrowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; trim spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruners, gloves.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged parts; use clean tools; remove carefully without damaging healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or compost to improve moisture retention; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate light frost but prolonged freezing temperatures may damage roots or cause dieback.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Pedicularis sylvatica. Chronic exposure poses a greater risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Pedicularis sylvatica can lead to liver toxicity in dogs if consumed regularly. Acute poisoning is rare but possible.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPedicularis sylvatica contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The plant's effects are generally mild but can accumulate over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pedicularis sylvatica toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in damp meadows and woodlands, preferring partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Historical uses are limited, and modern medicinal applications are not well-documented.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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