Dwarf Lousewort
Pedicularis centranthera
Last reviewed: July 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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Dwarf Lousewort need?
- Dwarf Lousewort grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Dwarf Lousewort bloom?
- Dwarf Lousewort blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Dwarf Lousewort native?
- Dwarf Lousewort (Pedicularis centranthera) is native to AZ, CA, CO, NM and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Dwarf Lousewort attract?
- Dwarf Lousewort draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Dwarf Lousewort HOA-friendly?
- Dwarf 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 Dwarf Lousewort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz