Pedicularis sylvatica

RHS Plant Profile
lousewort
lousewort visionspictures.com

A hemi-parasitic plant which occurs mostly in north and west Britain. These are plants which are partially parasitic on the roots of or shoots of its plant host. It forms congested clumps of fern-like leaves flushed with dark red to about 10cm tall. The oversize, pinkish flowers appear to develop directly from the ground, though they have short stalks, and are tubular and hooded, with an inflated calyx

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Orobanchaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Occurs naturally in damp grassy heaths, hill pasture and moorland. Is a partial parasite on the roots of a range of other plants, especially grasses

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free