Genus of flowering plants belonging to the broomrape family
Pedicularis is a genus of perennial green root parasite plants currently placed in the family Orobanchaceae (the genus previously having been placed in Scrophulariaceae "sensu lato").
Taxonomy.
The common name lousewort, applied to several species, derives from an old belief that these plants, when ingested, were responsible for lice infestations in livestock. The genus name "Pedicularis" is from the Latin "pediculus" meaning louse. Over 600 species are accepted, mostly from the wetter northern temperate zones, as well as from South America. The highest diversity is in eastern Asia, with 352 species accepted in China alone.
Selected species.
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Pedicularis caeruleoalbescens Wendelbo
Pollination.
"Bombus polaris" has an essential role in the pollination of the large zygomorphic flowers of "Pedicularis". "B. polaris" has a special adaption that allows it to work the spikes of "Pedicularis" from the bottom towards the top.
References.
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