Woolly Lousewort

(Pedicularis lanata)

Woolly Lousewort (Pedicularis lanata)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 5" - 30"
High Temp. 50°F - 66°F
Low Temp. -26°F - 11°F

Summary

Pedicularis lanata, commonly known as Woolly Lousewort or Bumble-bee Flower, is a perennial herb native to the tundra and alpine regions of Canada and Alaska, where it thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is often found in meadows, along stream banks, and on gravelly slopes. It typically grows 2 to 9.8 inches tall from a bright yellow taproot. The plant features narrow, lobed or compound leaves and is characterized by a woolly inflorescence of dark pink or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are tubular, resembling a bumblebee in shape, which is a key pollinator for the species.

Woolly Lousewort is not commonly cultivated but can be valued in native plant gardens or restoration projects for its unique appearance and its role in supporting pollinators. It requires cold stratification to germinate and prefers full sun to partial shade. In cultivation, it would need similar conditions to its native habitat, such as cool temperatures and moist, well-drained soils. While not known for significant problems, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Tundra and alpine regions, meadows, along stream banks, and on gravelly slopes

Other Names

Common Names: Arctic Lousewort

Scientific Names: Pedicularis lanata, Pedicularis kanei, Pedicularis kanei subsp. kanei, Pedicularis kanei subsp. yukonensis, Pedicularis lanata, Pedicularis lanata f. alba, Pedicularis lanata f. lanata, Pedicularis lanata subsp. lanata, Pedicularis lanata subsp. yukonensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Pedicularis lanata