Curve-beak lousewort (Pedicularis contorta)

Curve-beak lousewort

Also known as: Curved-beak lousewort

Curve-beak lousewort is a perennial herb that grows in wet mountainous forests and meadows. Its main stalks bloom with long racemes of flowers in summer. Curve-beak lousewort is an important food source for some caterpillars but is toxic to humans if consumed in quantity.

Scientific classification

Species

Curve-beak lousewort (Pedicularis contorta)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 41 cm

Plant Height

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Curve-beak lousewort

Care Guide for Curve-beak lousewort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from moist alpine regions, curve-beak lousewort prefers consistent moisture and regular hydration without waterlogging. Watering weekly sustains its growth. Typically grown outdoors, curve-beak lousewort adapts well to seasonal rainfall, influencing its growth cycles and watering needs.

Fertilize: Curve-beak lousewort requires sparing fertilization with balanced nutrition, applied quarterly, and increased during blooming. Use diluted solutions to avoid root burn, adjusting for seasons. Effective care combines soil testing, controlled doses, and observation, making it suitable for all gardening levels to ensure thriving plants.

Pruning: Curve-beak lousewort features unique, curled beak-like flowers. Prune in early spring by trimming dead stems, followed by light shaping later. Regular pruning improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and enhances growth. Always use clean tools for health and aesthetics.

Propagation: Curve-beak lousewort can be propagated through cuttings. Use healthy, non-flowering stems with rooting hormone in a well-draining soil mix. Maintain consistent moisture and high humidity, ideally with a clear plastic dome. Gradually acclimate rooted cuttings to ambient conditions before transplanting for optimal growth.

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