Pyrenean lousewort (Pedicularis pyrenaica, Ann. Sci. Nat. (Paris) 26: 210 (1832))

Family: Orobanchaceae

Author: J.Gay

Bibliography: Ann. Sci. Nat. (Paris) 26: 210 (1832)

Year: 1832

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pedicularis

Vegetable: False

Observations: NW. Spain to Pyrenees

Description

Pyrenean Lousewort (Pedicularis pyrenaica)

The Pyrenean Lousewort, scientifically known as Pedicularis pyrenaica, is an enchanting herbaceous plant native to the mountainous regions stretching from northwestern Spain to the Pyrenees. This distinctive member of the Orobanchaceae family thrives in alpine and subalpine zones, often found gracing meadows and rocky outcrops with its presence.

First classified by J. Gay in 1832 in his seminal work published in Ann. Sci. Nat. (Paris), the Pyrenean Lousewort captivates botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. The plant is noted for its delicate, fern-like foliage and unique flowering structure. The blossoms, typically appearing from late spring to early summer, exhibit a range of soft hues, from pale whites to gentle pinks, contributing to the biodiversity and aesthetic charm of its native landscapes.

Pedicularis pyrenaica plays an important ecological role within its habitat. As a hemiparasitic plant, it forms connections with the roots of neighboring plants, from which it derives essential nutrients. This adaptation not only underscores the complex interdependencies within alpine ecosystems but also adds a layer of intrigue to its biological study.

Conservation efforts are paramount for the Pyrenean Lousewort due to the specialized nature of its habitat. The alpine regions where it flourishes are sensitive to climate change and human activities, which can pose threats to its survival. Preserving the natural environments of northwestern Spain and the Pyrenees is crucial to maintaining the biodiversity that includes remarkable species like Pedicularis pyrenaica.

In summary, the Pyrenean Lousewort is a remarkable plant that enriches our understanding of alpine biodiversity and ecological interactions. Through continued research and conservation, we can ensure that this delicate yet resilient plant continues to thrive in its natural habitat.

Common Names

En: Pyrenean Lousewort
Ca: Pedicularis pirinenca
Fr: Pédiculaire des marais, Pédiculaire des Pyrénées
: Pyrenean lousewort

Synonyms

• Pedicularis pyrenaica var. donnayi (Bonati)
• Pedicularis castellana (Gand.)
• Pedicularis mixta (Gren.)
• Pedicularis pyrenaica subsp. fallax ((Font Quer & Guinea) Rivas Mart., T.E.Díaz, Fern.Prieto, Loidi & Penas)
• Pedicularis sennenii (Bonati)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 19, 2020 by Véronique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2021 by margarida vila (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 22, 2019 by raoul gallardo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2021 by margarida vila (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 10, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 9, 2021 by padrós toni (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2021 by margarida vila (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 9, 2021 by padrós toni (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 14, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 9, 2003 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 3, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Marie PORTAS (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 9, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2022 by margarida vila (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2000 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2011 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

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

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7333121)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:807540-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pedicularis pyrenaica J.Gay)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 6.5

Ph minimum: 5.5

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 8

Soil nutriments: 2