Pedicularis densiflora | |
---|---|
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
(unranked): | Angiosperms |
(unranked): | Eudicots |
(unranked): | Asterids |
Order: | Lamiales |
Family: | Orobanchaceae |
Genus: | Pedicularis |
Species: | P. densiflora |
Binomial name | |
Pedicularis densiflora Benth. ex Hook.[1] |
Pedicularis densiflora, known commonly as Indian warrior, is a plant of the lousewort genus in the broomrape family. It is a perennial herb with stout, green or sometimes reddish or magenta stems and fern-shaped leaves, and long spikes of deep red to bright pink flowers with toothed petals.
Contents[hide] |
Like others of its genus, it is a root parasite, attaching to the roots of other plants to obtain nutrients and water. This species is a facultative parasite, or hemiparasite, in that it can live without attaching to another plant but will parasitize if presented with the opportunity. It often parasitizes plants of the heath family, such as manzanita. Indian warrior is native to California and Oregon in western North America and is found in forests and woodlands at low elevation.
Indian Warrior is used as a tea or tincture for its ability to relax tense muscles. The buds and flowers are often smoked or added to herbal smoking blends for their color, flavor, and relaxing properties.