Beaked lousewort (Pedicularis rostratocapitata, Stirp. Austr. Fasc., ed. 2: 320 (1769))

Family: Orobanchaceae

Author: Crantz

Bibliography: Stirp. Austr. Fasc., ed. 2: 320 (1769)

Year: 1769

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pedicularis

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & E. Alps to NW. Balkan Pen.

Description

The Beaked Lousewort, scientifically named Pedicularis rostratocapitata, is a fascinating plant belonging to the Orobanchaceae family. First documented by Crantz in 1769 in his publication Stirp. Austr. Fasc., this distinctive species has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

Native to the challenging terrains of the Central and Eastern Alps, extending to the northwestern Balkan Peninsula, the Beaked Lousewort displays remarkable adaptability to its environment. This thriving ground dweller is often spotted in meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine pastures, areas characterized by their cold temperatures and rugged landscapes.

The plant’s common name, ‘Beaked Lousewort,’ stems from the unique structure of its flowers. These blossoms possess a distinct, protruding beak-like feature that sets them apart from other species within the Pedicularis genus. Typically blooming during the summer months, the flowers exhibit hues that range from vivid reds to purples, attracting various pollinators in their harsh alpine habitats.

Despite its relatively remote and harsh growing conditions, the Beaked Lousewort is an integral part of its ecosystem. The plant’s roots form symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, which help it extract nutrients from the often nutrient-poor alpine soils. Furthermore, its peculiar adaptation to hemiparasitism enables it to partially rely on neighboring plants for water and nutrients, which is vital for its survival in such extreme conditions.

In the botanical community, Pedicularis rostratocapitata is celebrated not only for its ecological significance but also for its striking appearance, with the head-like clusters of flowers enhancing the visual appeal of alpine landscapes. Researchers continue to study this resilient plant to understand better its role within its native habitats and its potential uses in horticulture and conservation efforts.

The robust characteristics and adaptability of the Beaked Lousewort highlight the incredible diversity and complexity of alpine flora. This remarkable plant serves as a reminder of the intricate balance within nature and the ongoing relationship between organisms and their environments.

Common Names

Deu: geschnäbeltes läusekraut, kopfiges läusekraut
En: Beaked lousewort
Fr: Pédiculaire de Jacquin
De: Geschnäbeltes Läusekraut, Kopfiges Läusekraut, Jacquins Läusekraut
It: Pedicolare a spiga breve

Synonyms

Distribution

• Austria (native)
• Germany (native)
• Italy (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 18, 2020 by Lolo ‘Vergnat (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 8, 2022 by tere torres (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2022 by Cristiano Marsaglia (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 16, 2022 by Vittorio Basso (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Rohweder Karsten (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2020 by jack (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 9, 2022 by Krampl Tomáš (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2021 by Elisabeth Ellu (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2022 by Katalin Sasvári (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 3, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Marie Portas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Jean-Luc GORREMANS (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 2, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7415437)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:807586-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pedicularis rostratocapitata Crantz)

Specifications

Growth