Pedicularis lanceolata, commonly known as Swamp Lousewort, is a native perennial wildflower found in fens, wet meadows, marshes, and other calcareous wetlands throughout parts of Illinois. It thrives in consistently moist to wet, alkaline soils and prefers full sun to light shade, making it an important species in high-quality wetland habitats.
This semi-parasitic plant typically grows 1 to 2.5 feet tall and features narrow, lance-shaped, deeply toothed leaves. From late summer into early fall, it produces dense spikes of creamy white to pale yellow, tubular flowers with hooded upper lips, which resemble small louseworts. The flowers are especially attractive to bumblebees and other long-tongued pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Pedicularis lanceolata is a rare and ecologically significant species, ideal for wetland restorations, fen preservation efforts, and specialized native plantings. Its semi-parasitic nature means it draws nutrients from the roots of neighboring plants, contributing to plant community dynamics. It pairs well with other fen and wetland specialists like Grass-of-Parnassus and Turtlehead in conservation-focused settings.
Pedicularis lanceolata, commonly known as Swamp Lousewort, is a native perennial wildflower found in fens, wet meadows, marshes, and other calcareous wetlands throughout parts of Illinois. It thrives in consistently moist to wet, alkaline soils and prefers full sun to light shade, making it an important species in high-quality wetland habitats.
This semi-parasitic plant typically grows 1 to 2.5 feet tall and features narrow, lance-shaped, deeply toothed leaves. From late summer into early fall, it produces dense spikes of creamy white to pale yellow, tubular flowers with hooded upper lips, which resemble small louseworts. The flowers are especially attractive to bumblebees and other long-tongued pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Pedicularis lanceolata is a rare and ecologically significant species, ideal for wetland restorations, fen preservation efforts, and specialized native plantings. Its semi-parasitic nature means it draws nutrients from the roots of neighboring plants, contributing to plant community dynamics. It pairs well with other fen and wetland specialists like Grass-of-Parnassus and Turtlehead in conservation-focused settings.
Bloom: late summer to fall
Habitats: fens; sandy ditches; sedge meadows; seeps and springs (in both sunny and wooded areas); swamps; wet sand prairies
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2.5 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: any soil that is not too acidic