Parry's lousewort (Pedicularis parryi)

Also known as: Mogollon lousewort

Parry's lousewort (Pedicularis parryi) is an eye-catching alpine wildflower, well-adapted to high-mountain meadows. This plant features vivid magenta flowers with a distinctive beak-like structure, which is particularly effective in attracting hummingbirds for pollination. Its lance-shaped leaves are another notable characteristic. Parry's lousewort can thrive in the thin, rocky soils typical of its environment, thanks in part to a specialized root system that often connects to nearby plants to draw additional nutrients.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Parry's lousewort

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

Up to 60 cm

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 1-2 cm

Flower Color

Purplish-pink to violet

Images of Parry's lousewort

Quickly Identify Parry's lousewort

This plant can be identified by its tall, slender stems that reach up to 60 cm in height, with lance-shaped leaves and densely packed flowers that range in color from purplish-pink to violet. The flowers are tubular and bilaterally symmetrical, typical of the genus.

Scientific Classification of Parry's lousewort

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Broomrape

Genus

Pedicularis

Species

Parry's lousewort

Planting and Growing of Parry's lousewort

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

55-65℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Parry's lousewort?

When watering Pedicularis parryi, aim for 500 milliliters per watering session. This amount should sufficiently moisten the soil without waterlogging the roots. The key is to ensure the soil is evenly damp but not soggy, allowing excess water to drain away.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Parry's lousewort? ›

What should I do if my Parry's lousewort is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Parry's lousewort? ›

How to save an overwatered Parry's lousewort? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Parry's lousewort?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Partial sun exposure is ideal, providing balanced conditions of light and shade. This optimal setup enhances foliage color and bloom production, ensuring that Pedicularis parryi remains healthy, resilient, and visually appealing.

How much direct sunlight should Pedicularis parryi receive? ›

Can Pedicularis parryi grow in full shade? ›

What measures can ensure optimal lighting for Pedicularis parryi? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Parry's lousewort?

Ideal Temperature: 55 ~ 65℉

The ideal temperature range for Pedicularis parryi lies between 55°F to 65°F. This range offers the best environmental conditions for optimum growth and health of the plant. Within this range, the plant can photosynthesize efficiently, and the likelihood of thermal stress is minimal. At these temperatures, Pedicularis parryi can maintain its metabolic processes at optimal levels, resulting in robust growth and healthy development.

What Soil is Best for Parry's lousewort?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

The soil should have good drainage capabilities to prevent waterlogging, which ensures that the roots have access to oxygen and reduce the risk of root rot, benefiting the plant's growth and health. The soil must be rich in organic matter to provide ample nutrients. This enhances the vigor of Pedicularis parryi, promoting robust growth and vibrant flowering. The soil should retain moisture adequately without becoming waterlogged, ensuring the plant receives consistent hydration during dry periods, which helps in sustaining its overall physiological functions.

How to Fertilize Parry's lousewort?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When applying fertilizer to Pedicularis parryi, it's crucial to use a diluted solution to prevent root burn. For liquid fertilizers, use one-quarter of the recommended amount on the package label. For slow-release fertilizers, apply approximately 1 teaspoon per plant annually.

How to Prune Parry's lousewort?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Prune Pedicularis parryi primarily during its growing seasons, which are spring and summer. These periods allow the plant to recover quickly from pruning as new growth begins to establish itself. Ensure your pruning shears or scissors are sharp and disinfected before making any cuts. This prevents the spread of diseases and ensures clean cuts that heal faster. Carefully remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves. Snip these at the base to encourage new shoots, improving the plant's vitality by directing energy toward new growth. Thinning the plant’s structure allows light and air to reach inner branches. Focus on maintaining its natural shape, cutting back any overgrown areas to preserve a balanced appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Parry's lousewort plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

First, sterilize your seed trays to prevent fungal infections. Then fill them with a moist germination mix to provide a suitable environment for the seeds to sprout.

Scatter the Pedicularis parryi seeds evenly across the surface of the germination mix. Do not cover the seeds entirely, as they need light for germination. Mist lightly with water to settle the seeds.

Place the seed trays in a bright, warm location. Maintain consistent moisture levels but avoid overwatering. Germination can take several weeks, after which seedlings will start to emerge.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Parry's lousewort plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Pedicularis parryi indicates it's time for a new pot when the roots begin to circle the bottom or emerge through drainage holes. If the plant's growth stalls or it seems overly thirsty, these are subtle signals that it's craving more space to stretch and sip nutrients.

Opt for a pot that's 1-2 inches larger in diameter. This ensures sufficient room for root expansion while avoiding the risk of upsize-induced stress on the plant. A pot with multiple drainage holes will prevent water accumulation, supporting robust and healthy growth.

Select a sandy loam mix that promises excellent drainage. Its ability to maintain bone-dry feet ensures your Pedicularis parryi sidesteps root rot, while the sandy texture duplicates its native earth, making the plant feel utterly at home.