Pink lousewort (Pedicularis rosea, N.J.von Jacquin, Misc. Austriac. 2: 57 (1781))

Family: Orobanchaceae

Author: Wulfen

Bibliography: N.J.von Jacquin, Misc. Austriac. 2: 57 (1781)

Year: 1781

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pedicularis

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. & E. Alps

Description

Pink lousewort, known scientifically as Pedicularis rosea, is a captivating flowering plant that was first detailed by scientist Wulfen. This species belongs to the Orobanchaceae family, known for its unique and often parasitic plants.

The Pink lousewort was extensively described in 1781 by N.J. von Jacquin in the publication Miscellanea Austriaca, where it is mentioned notably on page 57 of the second volume. This recognition has solidified its place in botanical history and has piqued the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

Native to the Southern and Eastern Alps, Pedicularis rosea thrives in alpine environments. Here in these picturesque mountain ranges, the Pink lousewort adorns the landscape with its distinctive rose-colored blooms. This vibrant hue contrasts beautifully against the often rocky and rugged terrain, making it a striking component of the alpine flora.

Belonging to the Orobanchaceae family, the Pink lousewort shares characteristic features with its relatives, such as the presence of hemiparasitic habits. These plants possess adaptations that enable them to extract water and nutrients from the roots of nearby plants, a fascinating survival strategy in the nutrient-poor soils of their alpine habitats.

The Pedicularis rosea is not just a visual delight. Its study provides critical insights into alpine plant ecology and the complex interactions within these ecosystems. The detailed documentation by early botanists has paved the way for modern research, helping ensure that this impressive species continues to be appreciated and understood in the context of its natural environment.

In summary, the Pink lousewort is a notable member of the alpine flora, distinguished by its beautiful flowers and its interesting ecological adaptations. Its historical documentation by Wulfen and others has established a foundation for continued appreciation and study of this unique plant.

Common Names

En: Pink lousewort
Fr: Pédiculaire rose
De: Rosa Läusekraut, Rosenrotes Läusekraut, Rosarotes Läusekraut
It: Pedicolare sottile

Synonyms

Distribution

• Austria (native)
• France (native)
• Italy (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Other

Taken Aug 15, 1998 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2002 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 23, 2017 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jun 7, 2001 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2001 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 23, 2017 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Marie PORTAS (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 2, 2022 by MERDY Patrice (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2001 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 7, 2001 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2004 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/8362890)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:807580-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pedicularis rosea Wulfen)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.0

Ph minimum: 4.5

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 5

Soil nutriments: 1