Bracteate Lousewort
Pedicularis bracteosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–20" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bracteate lousewort is a native wildflower with distinctive hooded flowers that bloom in shades of yellow, pink, or purple from June through August. This compact perennial grows 6-20 inches tall and prefers partial shade with moderate moisture. It forms small clumps and works well in naturalized garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bracteate Lousewort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Name contains 'lousewort' which may concern neighbors
- Has wild, unstructured appearance
- May look weedy or unkempt to conventional gardeners
Wildlife value
The unique hooded flowers are specifically adapted for pollination by bumblebees and other native bees. The plant provides important nectar during summer months when many other wildflowers have finished blooming.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bracteate Lousewort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.