Marsh lousewort
Pedicularis sylvatica · Orobanchaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant marsh lousewort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Europe, particularly mountainous and temperate regions
- Soil type
- Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Light
Lousewort thrives in partial shade or light shade, like in its natural forest habitat. It tolerates sunny positions if the soil remains cool. Prefer a location sheltered from drying winds.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during spring and summer growth. Water regularly during dry periods. In winter, reduce watering but avoid complete drying out.
Soil
Prepare soil rich in organic matter, well-structured and well-draining. Add compost or well-decomposed peat when planting to support establishment. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer in spring to support growth. Light feeding once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
No formal pruning is necessary. Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. In late autumn or early winter, you can clean up dried parts.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally robust and rarely subject to disease. Watch for root rot or powdery mildew in case of stagnant excess moisture. Ensure good air circulation and optimal drainage.
Did you know?
Lousewort gets its common English name from an old folk belief: it was thought to cause lice in livestock that grazed on it. Its scientific name Pedicularis comes from the Latin 'pediculus' (louse). Though harmless, this discreet forest herb remains a jewel of shaded moist areas, much appreciated by botanists for its finely sculpted pink flowers.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Meadow cowwheatMelampyrum pratense
- Yellow rattleRhinanthus minor
- Pedicularis palustrisPedicularis palustris
- Melampyrum sylvaticumMelampyrum sylvaticum
- Red bartsiaOdontites vernus
- VelvetbellsBartsia alpina
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.