Redrattle (Pedicularis flammea, Sp. Pl.: 609 (1753))

Family: Orobanchaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 609 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Pedicularis

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic America to E. Canada, N. Europe

Description

Redrattle, botanically known as Pedicularis flammea, is an intriguing plant species with a significant presence in various subarctic regions of North America and eastern Canada, as well as in Northern Europe. This resilient plant is a member of the Orobanchaceae family, which is known for its unique and varied representatives.

First described in 1753 by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, Redrattle gets its common name from the rattling sound the dry seed heads produce in the wind, a characteristic feature it shares with other members of the genus Pedicularis. The species epithet “flammea,” meaning “flame-like” in Latin, hints at the plant’s striking appearance, typically marked by vibrant colors that resemble flickering flames.

Redrattle thrives in the harsh climates of subarctic regions, where it often finds its niche in meadows, alpine habitats, and open terrains with well-drained soils. The plant exhibits a semi-parasitic lifestyle, drawing some of its nutrients from the roots of neighboring plants, which allows it to survive in nutrient-poor conditions typical of its native habitats.

Floral characteristics of Pedicularis flammea are particularly noteworthy. The plant features dense spike-like inflorescences adorned with tubular, brightly colored flowers. The hues of these flowers range from deep reds to fiery oranges, contributing to its common name and making it a beautiful addition to the subarctic floral tapestry. The flowers are especially adaptive for pollination by insects, with their unique shape facilitating access to nectar while promoting effective pollen transfer.

Due to its striking appearance and fascinating adaptation strategies, Redrattle has attracted interest not only from botanists and ecologists but also from horticulturists who appreciate the plant’s ornamental potential. However, its specialized habitat requirements mean it is best observed and appreciated within its natural environment.

In summary, Redrattle (Pedicularis flammea) stands out as a remarkable example of floral adaptation and survival in some of the planet’s most demanding climates. Its vibrant appearance and unique ecological strategies make it a subject of interest across multiple fields of botanical research and environmental study.

Common Names

Eng: redrattle, red-tipped lousewort, flame-coloured lousewort, red rattle, red-tipped wood betony
Swe: brandspira
Fra: pédiculaire flammée
Sme: ráddečoalči
En: Redrattle, Red-tipped lousewort, Flame-coloured lousewort, Red rattle, Red-tipped wood betony
Fi: Tulikuusio
Fr: Pédiculaire flammée
De: Brennendrotes Läusekraut
Is: Tröllastakkur
Se: Ráddečoalči
No: Brannmyrklegg
Sv: Brandspira

Synonyms

• Pedicularis flammea f. flavescens (Polunin)

Distribution

• Alberta (native)
• Greenland (native)
• Iceland (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Norway (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Québec (native)
• Sweden (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 6, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 6, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2015 by Andrzej Pasierbinski (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3171728)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:807057-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pedicularis flammea L.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth