Labrador Lousewort: A Hardy Arctic Native for Specialized Gardens
If you’re looking for a plant that laughs in the face of frigid temperatures and thrives where most flowers fear to bloom, meet Labrador lousewort (Pedicularis labradorica var. labradorica). This plucky little wildflower is nature’s answer to extreme gardening, bringing a splash of color to some of the world’s harshest landscapes.
What is Labrador Lousewort?
Labrador lousewort is a small herbaceous perennial that belongs to the snapdragon family. Despite its rather unflattering common name (don’t worry, it has nothing to do with actual lice!), this arctic native produces charming hooded flowers in shades of pink to purple. The plant typically grows 4-12 inches tall, making it a compact addition to specialized garden settings.
As a forb, this plant lacks woody tissue and dies back to the ground each winter, re-emerging from its roots when conditions warm up – which, in its native range, might be a very brief window indeed!
Where Does It Come From?
This cold-loving character is native to the circumpolar arctic and subarctic regions, calling Alaska, northern Canada, and Greenland home. You’ll find it naturally growing across Alberta, British Columbia, Alaska, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Labrador – basically anywhere that gets seriously chilly.
Why Would You Want to Grow It?
Labrador lousewort isn’t your typical garden center find, and for good reason. Here’s what makes it special:
- Extreme hardiness: This plant thrives in USDA zones 1-4, making it perfect for gardeners in the coldest climates
- Unique flowers: The distinctive hooded blooms are perfectly adapted for bumblebee pollination
- Native plant value: If you’re in its native range, it supports local ecosystems
- Conversation starter: Your neighbors definitely won’t have this one!
The Reality Check: Growing Challenges
Before you get too excited, let’s be honest – Labrador lousewort is not an easy plant to grow outside its natural habitat. It has evolved specifically for arctic conditions and short growing seasons, which makes it quite fussy about its requirements.
This plant needs:
- Extremely cold winter temperatures
- Cool summers
- Well-drained soil
- Full sun to partial shade
- Specific soil conditions that mimic tundra environments
Best Garden Settings
If you’re determined to try growing Labrador lousewort, your best bet is in specialized garden settings such as:
- Alpine gardens: Rock gardens that mimic mountain conditions
- Arctic plant collections: Specialized displays of circumpolar flora
- Native plant gardens: If you’re within its natural range
- Naturalized tundra areas: Large properties with suitable microclimates
Planting and Care Tips
Growing Labrador lousewort requires patience and the right conditions:
- Start with seeds: Seeds likely require cold stratification (extended cold treatment) to germinate
- Timing: Plant in areas with short, cool growing seasons
- Soil: Provide well-drained, lean soil – avoid rich, fertile conditions
- Location: Choose a spot with good drainage and protection from extreme heat
- Water: Avoid overwatering; this plant is adapted to harsh, dry conditions
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
The specialized hooded flowers of Labrador lousewort are perfectly designed for bumblebees, which are among the few pollinators tough enough to work in arctic conditions. If you can successfully grow this plant, you’ll be providing valuable nectar for these hardy pollinators during the brief arctic summer.
The Bottom Line
Labrador lousewort is definitely not a plant for everyone or every garden. It’s a specialist that requires very specific conditions and climate zones. However, if you’re gardening in zones 1-4 and want to try something truly unique, or if you’re creating a specialized arctic plant collection, this little trooper might be worth the challenge.
For most gardeners, especially those in warmer climates, you’ll have better luck with other native wildflowers suited to your specific region. But for those intrepid souls gardening in the far north, Labrador lousewort offers a chance to grow a true piece of the arctic – just don’t expect it to be easy!
