Pedicularis rostratospicata: complete guide

Pedicularis rostratospicata, commonly known as flesh-pink lousewort or spiked lousewort, is a fascinating alpine plant from the Orobanchaceae family, native to the Austrian, French, and German Alps. This plant is valued by alpine gardeners for its pink flowers and preference for alpine conditions. Pedicularis rostratospicata is a perennial alpine herb naturally occurring on steep slopes in the Eastern Alps at elevations from 1800 to 3000 meters. The plant is a semi-parasite, meaning it partially depends on host plants while possessing some photosynthetic capacity. This makes cultivation somewhat more complex than conventional alpine plants. The plant reaches 15 to 30 centimeters tall with an erect to semi-prostrate growth habit. The leaves are finely divided, green, and finely toothed. The flowers are remarkable, displaying flesh-pink to rosy coloration arranged in dense terminal spikes. Blooming extends from July through August, relatively late for alpine plants. Pedicularis rostratospicata thrives in full sun to partial shade positions in alpine environments. In English gardens, an alpine trough or rock garden on a northwest or north-facing slope works well. The plant requires well-drained, rocky locations. The plant grows best in well-drained, gritty soils with pH between 8 and 9, thus slightly alkaline. Alpine grit-based mixture with limestone or gravel is ideal. The plant tolerates poor, lean soils adequately. Pedicularis rostratospicata tolerates drought well in its natural alpine habitat due to excellent drainage. In cultivation, water carefully so soil neither dries completely nor becomes waterlogged. During growth and flowering periods, water regularly. After flowering, reduce watering. The plant requires minimal intervention. Spent flowers can be removed to limit self-seeding, though this is optional. After the flowering period, the aerial portion largely dies back. May to July growth period, July to August flowering period, August to September seed maturation, October to April dormancy. Pedicularis rostratospicata is extremely hardy, naturally occurring in areas with snow and frost. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 6. In England, this plant can overwinter outdoors in well-drained alpine garden sections. Pedicularis rostratospicata combines beautifully with other alpine plants such as Dryas, Saxifraga, Gentiana, and other rock plants. This combination creates an authentic alpine garden environment. Pedicularis rostratospicata is a magnificent plant for alpine gardeners. While the semi-parasitic nature adds complexity, growing this species rewards you with a true mountain plant.