Pedicularis is a genus of perennial green root parasite plants currently placed in the broomrape family Orobanchaceae (the genus previously having been placed in Scrophulariaceaesensu lato).
Between 350 and 600 species are accepted by different authorities, mostly from the wetter northern temperate zones, as well as from South America. The highest diversity is in eastern Asia, with 352 species accepted in China alone.
The common name lousewort, applied to several species, derives from an old belief that these plants, when ingested, were responsible for lice infestations in stock.
Pollination
Bombus polaris has an essential role in the pollination of the large zygomorphic flowers of Pedicularis. B. polaris has a special adaption that allows it to work the spikes of Pedicularis from the bottom towards the top.
Selected species
Pedicularis acaulis
Pedicularis amoena
Pedicularis arguteserrata
Pedicularis ascendens
Pedicularis asparagoides
Pedicularis asplenifolia
Pedicularis attollens (Little elephant's head)
Pedicularis baumgartenii
Pedicularis brachyodonta
Pedicularis bracteosa (Fern-leaf, Towering, or Bracted Lousewort)
Pedicularis canadensis (Canadian Lousewort)
Pedicularis centranthera
Pedicularis comosa
Pedicularis compacta
Pedicularis contorta (Coiled Lousewort or White-coiled Beak Lousewort)
