swamp lousewort, Pedicularis lanceolata

Louseworts, including swamp louseworts, are hemiparasitic. They attach roots to host plants to get part of their water and minerals. They also use photosynthesis for nourishment. Lanceleaf lives in damp areas, particularly fens. The hemiparasitic method helps them grow in nutrient poor ground such as the very basic soil in fens. The Iroquois ate the greenery of these plants as cooked veggies. Lanceleaf lousewort grows in AR, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SD, TN, VA, WI, WV, MB, and ON. Lenawee Co MI, 9/15/11. Broomrape family, Orobanchaceae.