Pedicularis rainierensis

Mount Rainier Lousewort

Mount Rainier Lousewort
Although P. rainierensis may exist outside of the park boundaries (e.g. near Crystal Mtn. ski area) it is endemic to the influence of “The Mountain”. Listed as ‘sensitive’ in The Endangered, Threatened, and Sensitive Vascular Plants of Washington. Threats include grazing by elk and marmots as well trampling by humans. Purplish stems rise 4 – 16″ (10 – 40 cm) with a head of hooded yellow flowers. Not uncommon but also not found in abundance between 5,000′ to 7,000′ elevation.

Family:

Orobanchaceae - BROOM-RAPE FAMILY

Genus:

Pedicularis from Latin pediculus 'a louse' related to lice infestation

Species:

rainierensis for Mount Rainier National Park
Photo location: Grand Park and Spray Park (new growth).