Description of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr, commonly known as Purple Lousewort, is a flowering plant native to the mountains of western North America. This plant can be found in subalpine and alpine regions, typically growing in moist areas near streams or in meadows where the soil is well-drained.
General Appearance
Purple Lousewort is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. The stem is densely clustered with green or purple leaves, which are typically 5-7 cm long and pinnately divided into narrow, toothed segments. The plant produces a spikelike inflorescence, which blooms from June to August. The inflorescence is a dense cluster of small, tubular flowers that are typically purple in color, but can also be pink or white.
Common Names
Some of the common names for Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea include Purple Lousewort, Parry's Lousewort, and Mountain Lousewort.
Uses
Traditionally, Native Americans used Purple Lousewort for a variety of medicinal purposes, such as treating headaches, colds, and rheumatism. The plant was also used as a natural dye for fabrics. Today, Purple Lousewort is primarily used for its aesthetic value, as it is a popular ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes. Its dense, spikelike flowers and unique foliage make it an attractive addition to any garden.
Light Requirements
Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea thrives well under moderate to bright light conditions. It grows well under partial shade, but full sunlight is necessary for effective photosynthesis. Most of the Pedicularis species love light and are often found in open spaces, meadows, and clearings in pine and fir forests.
Soil Requirements
This species favors well-drained, moist, and slightly acidic soils. It grows well in sandy, rocky, or loamy soils with adequate drainage. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including clayey soil, as long as the soil is well-drained. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to offer the plant enough nutrients.
Temperature Requirements
Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea is well adapted to cool climates and can thrive in temperatures ranging from 50° F to 75° F (10° C to 23.8° C). The plant can withstand low temperatures of up to 14° F (-10° C) during winter dormancy, as it is a perennial plant. However, it does not tolerate high temperatures exceeding 80° F (26.7° C), which can be detrimental to its growth and survival.
Cultivation of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr, commonly known as Purple Lousewort, is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. The plant can be grown from seeds or propagated through stem cuttings and requires a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The ideal planting location should have partial to full sun and plenty of space for growth.
Watering Needs of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Purple Lousewort requires consistent moisture in the soil, especially during the growing season. Watering deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to become slightly moist between watering, is essential for the plant's health. Too much water can cause root rot, so ensure adequate drainage is provided to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, avoid overhead watering, as the plant does not thrive in humid conditions.
Fertilization of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Fertilization is not necessarily required, but it can promote healthy growth and better blooming. Any balanced, slow-release fertilizers can be applied once a month during the growing season, beginning in early spring. Avoid excessive use of nitrogen, as it can contribute to more foliage growth than flowers.
Pruning of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Pruning is not necessary for this plant. However, removing spent flowers promotes a longer blooming period. If the plant becomes too dense, it can be thinned out by removing the oldest or weakest stems at the base, preferably after flowering. Cutting back the plant to control its height should be done in early spring before new growth has started.
Propagation of Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr
Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea (Parry) G.D. Carr, commonly known as Parry's lousewort, is a perennial herb native to the mountains of western North America. It produces beautiful purplish-pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Here are three methods for propagating Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea:
1. Seed Propagation
Seeds of Parry's lousewort can be collected and propagated to produce new plants. The seeds can be collected from ripe capsules that are slightly brown in color and dry. Once collected, the seeds must be cleaned and sorted to remove debris or other plant materials. Sandpaper can be used to scar the seedcoat to improve germination. Seeds are usually sown in a seedbed in the spring, and the seedlings are transplanted into the site in the fall.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Parry's lousewort can also be propagated vegetatively. The plant naturally reproduces vegetatively through rooting of its rhizomes. To propagate, the rhizomes can be dug up, segmented, and replanted in a new location or container. Cuttings can also be taken from stems of an established plant and rooted in growing medium.
3. Division Propagation
An established Parry's lousewort can also be divided into several smaller plants. This method involves carefully digging up the plant and separating its rhizomes into smaller portions. The divided portions can then be replanted in container or bed. While this method of propagation is easy, it may take longer to establish a substantial number of plants than other methods.
Disease Management
There are several diseases that can affect the Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea plant. One of the common diseases that can affect the species is the rust fungus. It appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves and can cause leaf drop. To manage this, it is recommended to remove affected foliage and clear debris around plants to prevent the spread of the spores. If necessary, fungicides can be used as per the directions on the package.
Another disease that can affect this species is powdery mildew which leaves behind a whitish-grey, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to prune affected parts of the plant and increase air flow between plants by planting them further apart. Fungicides can also be helpful in managing powdery mildew.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can infest and damage the Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea plant. Aphids are one of the common pests that can cause damage to the foliage of the plant by sucking out sap from the leaves and stems. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock off the insects from the plant. Alternatively, insecticidal soaps and oils can be used.
Caterpillars are another pest that can cause damage to the Pedicularis parryi Gray ssp. purpurea plant, especially in the larval stage when they feed on the foliage. Hand picking the caterpillars off the plant is one way to manage the pests. Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a bacteria that is toxic to caterpillars, can also be used as a biological control.
The plant can also be affected by spider mites which suck sap from the plant, causing it to become dry and discolored. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with a strong jet of water, hand pick the mites, or use insecticidal soaps and oils.
Flea beetles, leaf miners, and whiteflies are other pests that can affect the plant. The use of insecticides can be helpful in managing these pests. However, it is important to ensure that the insecticides are safe for the plant species.
