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Canadian lousewort

Pedicularis canadensis

The Canadian lousewort is a pretty flower that grows in cool, shady places. Its unique shape and bright colors make it special in the forest, where it loves to bloom in springtime.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Canadian lousewort has fuzzy stems and fern-like leaves, forming a compact clump. Its unique, hood-shaped yellow, reddish, or purple flowers cluster together in a dense spike, often resembling a tiny elephant's head.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderLamialesFamilyOrobanchaceaeGenusPedicularis
Canadian lousewort
flowering trait badgecluster_flower trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgespring_blooming trait badge
Canadian lousewort

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

It is sometimes called 'wood betony' because it often grows in shady forests.

Its strange name comes from an old belief it could cure animals of lice!

Some people think its vibrant flowers look just like little elephant heads!

This plant grows tiny roots that sneakily connect to neighbors to sip their food!

Special abilities

Ability

Nutrient Thief

Canadian lousewort can steal nutrients from the roots of nearby plants, helping it survive even in poor soils.

Ability

Soil Architect

Canadian lousewort can influence how its host plants use nutrients, potentially improving soil health over time.

Ability

Bumblebee Beacon

Canadian lousewort has uniquely shaped flowers that perfectly fit certain bumblebees, ensuring its seeds are spread.

Measurements & details

Height
10-50 cm
Spread
10-30 cm
Flower Size
1-2 cm
Bloom Season
Late spring to early summer
Edible
No
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

parasitizes

Kentucky bluegrass

Poa pratensis

Steals nutrients from its roots.

parasitizes

Canada goldenrod

Solidago canadensis

Attaches to the roots for extra resources.

pollinates

Common eastern bumblebee

Bombus impatiens

Bumblebees visit its unique flowers for nectar.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Do not pick the flowers; they are best enjoyed in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Canadian lousewort?

10-50 cm

How wide does Canadian lousewort spread?

10-30 cm

How big are the flowers on Canadian lousewort?

1-2 cm

When does Canadian lousewort bloom?

Late spring to early summer

Is Canadian lousewort edible?

No

Is Canadian lousewort toxic?

None

What is Canadian lousewort's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Canadian lousewort pollinated?

Insect

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