Redrattle: A Challenging but Rewarding Arctic Native
If you’re drawn to unique wildflowers with a touch of mystery, redrattle (Pedicularis flammea) might catch your attention. This fascinating perennial forb brings a splash of fiery color to some of North America’s most challenging landscapes, though it’s definitely not your average garden flower.
What Is Redrattle?
Redrattle is a member of the lousewort family, known for its distinctive bright red to orange-red tubular flowers that cluster together in dense, eye-catching spikes. The flowers have a characteristic hooded shape that makes them instantly recognizable to wildflower enthusiasts. As a perennial forb, redrattle lacks woody stems but returns year after year from its root system.
You might also see this plant listed under its synonyms Pedicularis albertae or Pedicularis oederi var. albertae in older botanical references, but Pedicularis flammea is the currently accepted scientific name.
Where Does Redrattle Call Home?
This hardy little plant is native to the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, thriving in Canada and Greenland. In Canada, you’ll find redrattle growing wild across a vast northern territory including Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Labrador, and Newfoundland.
Should You Grow Redrattle in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit complicated. While redrattle is undeniably beautiful with its vibrant red flowers and unique form, it’s not exactly what you’d call garden-friendly.
The Challenges
- Redrattle is partially parasitic, meaning it needs to attach to the roots of host grasses to survive
- It requires extremely cold conditions and won’t tolerate warm climates (USDA zones 1-4 only)
- The plant demands very specific growing conditions that are nearly impossible to replicate in most gardens
- Propagation is extremely difficult and rarely successful outside its natural habitat
The Rewards
- Stunning, unique flowers that create dramatic color displays
- Attracts specialized pollinators like bumblebees
- Supports native ecosystem relationships
- Perfect conversation starter for native plant enthusiasts
Growing Conditions and Care
If you live in the far north and want to try growing redrattle, here’s what you need to know:
Climate: Extremely hardy to zones 1-4, requiring long, cold winters and cool summers
Soil: Well-drained, rocky or sandy soils with good moisture retention
Host Requirements: Must have compatible grass species nearby for the parasitic relationship
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
Water: Consistent moisture, but not waterlogged conditions
A Better Alternative for Most Gardeners
Unless you’re gardening in the Arctic or subarctic regions, redrattle simply isn’t practical for home cultivation. Instead, consider these easier-to-grow native alternatives that offer similar visual appeal:
- Wild bergamot for red tubular flowers
- Cardinal flower for brilliant red color
- Native penstemons for similar flower shapes
Best Role in the Landscape
In its native range, redrattle works best in:
- Naturalistic wildflower meadows
- Alpine or rock gardens with appropriate host grasses
- Native plant preservation areas
- Educational or botanical gardens with specialized care
The Bottom Line
Redrattle is undoubtedly a spectacular native plant that plays an important role in Arctic ecosystems. Its bright red flowers and unique parasitic lifestyle make it a fascinating species to learn about and appreciate in the wild. However, for most gardeners, admiring redrattle in its natural habitat or in specialized botanical collections is the best way to enjoy this remarkable plant.
If you’re fortunate enough to live in redrattle’s native range and want to support local ecosystems, consider leaving wild areas undisturbed rather than attempting cultivation. Sometimes the best way to garden with native plants is to let them stay exactly where they belong.
