SafePlants

Fernleaf Yellow False Foxglove (Aureolaria pedicularia)

The Fernleaf Yellow False Foxglove, scientifically known as Aureolaria pedicularia, is a fascinating plant with a unique parasitic lifestyle. It is also commonly referred to as Northern Oak-leach, Hairy False Foxglove, or simply Fernleaf foxglove.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is described as having sticky and hairy stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aureolaria pedicularia (L.) Raf.
• Common Name: Fernleaf Yellow False Foxglove
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (formerly), now Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family)
• Kingdom: Not explicitly mentioned in the text, but assumed to be Plantae.
• Rank: Species
• Subspecies: Aureolaria pedicularia var. pedicularia is one recognized subspecies.
• Synonyms: Gerardia pedicularia (L.) (formerly)
• Note: The plant was previously classified under the Scrophulariaceae family but is now placed in Orobanchaceae.

Distribution and Habitat

• The Fernleaf Yellow False Foxglove is native to North America.
• It is described as occasional in its native range.
• Specific locations mentioned include Delaware County, PA; New Hanover Co., NC; Georgia; and Florida.
• It thrives in specific oak habitats, such as sandhills and dry oak forests.
• Aureolaria pedicularia is listed as a threatened species in New Hampshire (NH).

Ecological Role

• This plant is a parasite, specifically of oak trees.
• It obtains nutrients by parasitizing the roots of oaks, especially white oaks.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is an annual herb.
• The plant is bushy in appearance.
• Flowers are trumpet-shaped, yellow corollas.
• Each flower has a short green calyx with 5 teeth.
• Flowers are relatively large, about 3 cm (1.2 in.) long, bell-shaped, yellow, and borne on the ends of long stalks.
• Stems are described as sticky and hairy.
• Leaves are simple and hairy.
• The species Aureolaria pedicularia has fernlike, delicately dissected leaves, and glandular hairs.

Quirky Facts

• In spring, the Fernleaf Yellow False Foxglove can sometimes assume a pink coloring.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It parasitizes oak trees, particularly white oaks.

Further Information

• Discover Life's page provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Aureolaria pedicularia.
• Dave's Garden offers a community forum for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Additional photos and information can be found at http://amberastrophil.blogspot.com/2014/09/fernleaf-yellow-false-foxglove.html.
• Images of this plant are available through The Ohio State University, taken by Catherine Herms.