Dwarf Lousewort
Pedicularis centranthera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NM and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Dwarf lousewort is a compact native perennial that forms low mats of foliage with distinctive tubular flowers. This alpine plant blooms from June through August and stays very short, making it suitable for rock gardens or as groundcover in partially shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dwarf 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.
- Very small size may appear insignificant in formal landscapes
- Alpine appearance may look too wild for maintained areas
- Unknown winter appearance creates uncertainty
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. Its compact size makes it valuable for supporting pollinators in small garden spaces.
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 Dwarf Lousewort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.