Pedicularis hirsuta
L.
Hairy Lousewort
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) grand, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by grand
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Andy Fyon, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Andy Fyon
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Keith W. Larson, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Keith W. Larson
Summary
Source: WikipediaPedicularis hirsuta, commonly known as hairy lousewort, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. It is a semi-parasitic plant. Its native range is subarctic.
Description
A diminutive perennial reaching only 0.1 m (0ft 4in) with hermaphroditic flowers. Suited to light sandy and medium loamy well-drained soils in neutral to very alkaline pH ranges. Can grow in semi-shade or full sun and requires moist soil.
Edible Uses
Both the root and leaves are edible when cooked.
Medicinal Uses
None known.
Distribution
It is a cold temperate plant. It grows in polar regions. It can stand variety in exposure, moisture, soil and competition. It grows in heath and grassland locations.
Where It Grows
Alaska, Arctic, Canada, Europe, Greenland, Sweden,
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will succeed in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. A calcicole species, it dislikes acid soils. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. A semi-parasitic plant, growing on grass roots. Rather difficult to establish in cultivation, it is best grown in conditions that approximate to its native habitat. It requires a moist peaty soil and the presence of host grasses. Requires a partially shaded to sunny site in a well-drained gritty but moist soil.
Propagation
Sow seed in pots of turf collected from near wild colonies, or sow directly onto the site where plants are to remain. Division of established plants may be possible in spring; establish divisions close to the parent plants.
Other Uses
None known.
Notes
Also put in the family Scrophulariaceae.
References (3)
- Morley, B. & Everard, B., 1970, Wild Flowers of the World. Ebury press. Plate 5
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
- Porsild, A.E., 1953, Edible Plants of the Arctic, Arctic 6:15-34, page 23
