Swamp Lousewort
Pedicularis lanceolata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pedicularis lanceolata (Swamp Lousewort) is a native forb found across eastern and midwestern United States that blooms yellow flowers from June through August in wet meadows and swamps.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CT, DE, GA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Swamp lousewort is a native perennial wildflower that produces distinctive yellow, tubular flowers from June through August. This moisture-loving plant forms compact clumps with finely divided foliage and grows 8-24 inches tall. It thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial sun conditions.
Growing Swamp Lousewort
Grow Swamp Lousewort in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 8 to 24 inches tall and spread 4 to 12 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Swamp Lousewort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet soil conditions that may appear unkempt
- Wild appearance doesn't fit typical landscaping expectations
- Name contains 'lousewort' which could raise concerns
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. This native plant provides nectar for pollinators when many other flowers may be stressed by summer heat.
Common questions
- Where does Pedicularis lanceolata naturally grow?
- Swamp Lousewort is native to 25 states across the eastern and midwestern United States, from Massachusetts south to Georgia and west to North Dakota and Nebraska.
- When does Swamp Lousewort bloom?
- Pedicularis lanceolata produces flowers from June through August, providing nectar for pollinators during the summer months.
- What pollinators visit Swamp Lousewort?
- The flowers of Pedicularis lanceolata attract bees and butterflies, which help pollinate this wetland species.
- What growing conditions does Swamp Lousewort prefer?
- This plant thrives in partial sun conditions with consistently moist to wet soils, making it well-suited for bog gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized wetland areas.
- Is Swamp Lousewort HOA-friendly?
- Swamp 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 Swamp 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