Lousewort
pedicularis comosa
Also known as: ["Common Lousewort","Crested Lousewort"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant with distinctive hooded flowers, typically found in grassy meadows and woodland edges.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Pedicularis |
| Botanical Name: | Pedicularis comosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or shaded borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter and sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation.
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; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (10–20°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 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%), warm temperatures (18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
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.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide insulation; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength 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 comosa. Even small amounts can be harmful over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Pedicularis comosa can lead to liver toxicity in dogs if consumed in sufficient quantities. Chronic exposure is particularly concerning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPedicularis comosa contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pedicularis comosa toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is currently unavailable.
Q: Where does Pedicularis comosa typically grow?
A: It is commonly found in grassy meadows and woodland edges.
Q: What are the care requirements for Pedicularis comosa?
A: It requires moderate care, including balanced maintenance and suitable environmental conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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