This is a native plant, but it is not available in the 2026 Wild Ones plant sale.

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Wood Betony

Pedicularis canadensis

Perennial

Wood Betony

Pedicularis canadensis

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Growing Conditions

Light Sun – Part Shade

Water Dry – Medium

Soil Sandy, Loam

Size 0.5-1.5'

Bloom Yellow to Red, Apr–May

Why Grow It

Early Bloomer Blooms early, providing critical spring nectar

Deer Resistant Great for gardens without fencing

Shade Tolerant Grows well in partial to full shade

Easy to Grow Low maintenance & beginner friendly

Did You Know?

Wood Betony is hemiparasitic — it taps into the root systems of neighboring plants to siphon water and nutrients, though it can also survive on its own.

Queen bumblebees emerging in early spring are among its most frequent visitors, making it a critical early-season nectar source.

The flower color varies dramatically from light yellow to deep purple-red, and individual plants may display both colors simultaneously.

Wildlife Value

🐝

Bumblebees Primary pollinators of the hooded yellow-red flowers

🦋

Fritillary Butterflies Visit flowers in open woodland and prairie settings

🐛

Painted Lady Caterpillar May use as secondary larval host in some regions

Good Companions

🌾 Pennsylvania Sedge 💛 Golden Alexanders 🌸 Wild Lupine 🌿 Big Bluestem

Planting Guide

Sow fresh seed in fall near host plant roots; hemiparasitic.
Plant in dry to mesic soil with sun to light shade.
Must grow near other plants; taps neighboring roots for nutrients.

Plant Details

Made with ♥ by Lu Li