Hairy lousewort
Pedicularis hirsuta
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Pl. 2197 — Pedicularis hirsuta
Pedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsutaPedicularis hirsuta
IOverview
Overview
Hairy lousewort (Pedicularis hirsuta) is a perennial herb native to the cooler regions of North America and Eurasia, including Alaska, Buryatiya, Finland, Greenland, Khabarovsk, Krasnoyarsk, Labrador, Magadan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Québec, Svalbard, Sweden, West Siberia, and Yakutskiya. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and prefers well-drained soils that are sandy or medium-textured. Known for its edible properties, the leaves and roots can be consumed. Its distinctive feature is the presence of fine hairs on the stems and leaves, giving it a soft, velvety appearance.
Quick answers
What is Hairy lousewort?
Hairy lousewort (Pedicularis hirsuta) is a perennial herb native to the cooler regions of North America and Eurasia, including Alaska, Buryatiya, Finland, Greenland, Khabarovsk, Krasnoyarsk, Labrador, Magadan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Québec, Svalbard, Sweden, West Siberia, and Yakutskiya.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hairy lousewort thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. This perennial grows up to 0.1 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or division of established plants. Harvest the leaves and roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Hairy lousewort for the first time
7steps
Start with Hairy lousewort as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial shade and well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune dead foliage in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The hairy lousewort is eaten in its native range, where its leaves and roots are gathered. These parts can be consumed fresh or dried for later use. Skip preparation details as specific culinary uses are not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 17 native
Europe4 regions
native (4)FinlandNorwayRussiaSweden
Americas2 regions
native (2)GreenlandUnited States
Broader regions
native:Buryatiya, Khabarovsk, Krasnoyarsk, Labrador, Magadan, Northwest Territorie, Nunavut, Québec, Svalbard, Yakutskiya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2197cff6-8bb9-416a-a01f-092faba88ddf
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