Wood Betony, Pedicularis canadensis

This species is currently undergoing germination trials. It is possible that it will be offered in the spring of 2025. Sign up to be notified when it is in stock through the form above.

Pedicularis canadensis (wood betony or Canadian lousewort) is an early blooming resident of medium to dry prairies. It is not a very common plant in our region, but should you come across one you know that you are on a piece of land that has never seen the plow.

Wood betony has become a plant of special interest for conservationists due to the role it seems to play within a prairie ecosystem. Pedicularis canadensis is a partially parasitic species. It attaches its roots to neighboring host plants and in so doing reduces their vigor. The result is that these plants make openings in the prairie for numerous smaller species to thrive that would otherwise be overtaken by larger grasses and flowers.

Since diversity is prized within restoration efforts, such behavior is worth taking note of. Unfortunately, for quite some time wood betony was a puzzle to germinate reliably. We have been working alongside other organizations to tackle this issue and have been having success!

We are among the very few native nurseries to be offering Pedicularis canadensis for sale. In spite of its rarity, once it is growing, it is easy to care for and makes a interesting addition to any native garden. Its early blossoms offer an important pollen source for early emerging bees, and it provides a unique burst of color during an otherwise sedate time of year.

Life Cycle: Perennial
Size: 12 Inches
Sun: Full, Partial
Soil: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry, Dry
Bloom Time: April, May
Advantages: