Common Lousewort
Pedicularis canadensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pedicularis canadensis (Common Lousewort) is a native wildflower blooming yellow flowers in April and May across eastern and central North America. This shade-tolerant forb attracts bees and butterflies in woodland gardens.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Common Lousewort as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common lousewort is a low-growing native wildflower that produces distinctive hooded yellow or reddish flowers in early spring. This compact perennial forms small clumps with deeply cut, fern-like foliage and typically grows 4-12 inches tall. It thrives in partial shade with moderate moisture and goes dormant in summer.
Growing Common Lousewort
Grow Common Lousewort in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common 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.
- Unusual name creates negative perception
- Looks very wild and unmanicured
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers provide nectar for native bees and butterflies during the early spring pollinator season. This plant is particularly valuable because it blooms when few other native flowers are available.
Common questions
- When does Pedicularis canadensis bloom?
- Common Lousewort blooms in April and May, producing distinctive yellow tubular flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Pedicularis canadensis?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Common Lousewort, attracted to its spring nectar sources.
- Where is Pedicularis canadensis native?
- Common Lousewort is native across much of eastern and central North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Colorado and New Mexico.
- What growing conditions does Common Lousewort prefer?
- Pedicularis canadensis thrives in partial shade to shade with medium moisture, making it ideal for woodland garden settings.
- Is Common Lousewort toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Common Lousewort as toxic to livestock.
- Is Common Lousewort HOA-friendly?
- Common Lousewort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Common Lousewort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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