Species common lousewort
yellow-burgundy, two-lipped flowers with hairy, green stems, and hairy, green, lobed leaves

common lousewort

Pedicularis canadensis

Common lousewort (Pedicularis canadensis) is a hardy perennial herb found throughout eastern and central North America. Its unique reddish-purple flowers have divided petals and a curl of white at the base. It thrives in meadows, grasslands and open woodlands, blooming from late spring through summer. The plant contains many potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating and antibacterial properties. It is a perfect addition to natural landscaping and can make an excellent addition to a native wildflower bouquet.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow to purple-red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Common lousewort is an herbaceous perennial native to North America. As with most plants, it requires regular watering to stay healthy and vibrant. Generally speaking, common lousewort should be watered deeply and often, to keep the soil evenly moist. Water it when the topsoil of the pot or garden bed feels dry to the touch. During the warmer months of the year it may require watering several times a week; during cooler, wetter weather, every 3 to 4 days should be sufficient. Make sure you water early enough in the day to allow moisture to evaporate from the plant's foliage; otherwise, you could encourage the growth of mildew and other fungal illnesses.

sunlight

Common lousewort (Pedicularis canadensis) is a perennial plant species that thrives in areas with medium to full sun exposure. Depending on the local climate, this plant typically requires 5 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day during the growing period. This plant does not tolerate strong winds, and it is best to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the hotter months. During the summer months, it is important to provide extra shade during the heat of the day, especially for areas with intense sunlight. In more mild climates, this plant can tolerate some partial shade, but it requires at least 5 hours of direct sunlight for optimum growth.

pruning

Common lousewort (Pedicularis canadensis) should be pruned in the early spring, shortly before flowering. All dead and weakened stems should be removed, and the plant should be thinned to promote air circulation. This will help lessen the chance of fungal and disease issues. Pruning will also help to maintain the desired shape of the plant. Generally, avoid pruning any stems that have already bloomed in order to ensure that you do not remove potential flowers or useful seeds for wildlife.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Common lousewort typically starts flowering in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Common lousewort typically starts flowering in May or June.

Hardiness Map