Lousewort
pedicularis foliosa
Also known as: ["Lousewort"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to alpine and subalpine regions, characterized by its distinctive hooded flowers and fern-like foliage.
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 foliosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Check drainage by watering; amend if water pools; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler nights (45–55°F or 7–13°C) during dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim stems just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers to redirect energy.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape plant to maintain compactness.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; dispose of clippings; clean up debris to prevent pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water until it drains from the bottom; discard excess water from saucer.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in heat; stunted growth or mold in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if soil freezes.
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest Pedicularis foliosa. The alkaloids present can cause temporary discomfort but are not generally considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pedicularis foliosa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPedicularis foliosa contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pedicularis foliosa toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Pedicularis foliosa?
A: It thrives in alpine and subalpine environments with well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.
Q: Does Pedicularis foliosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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