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The Society
Connecticut Plants
Fernleaf False Foxglove
Aureolaria pedicularia
There are three species of yellow false foxglove in Connecticut, all with similar flowers. Fernleaf false foxglove is a bushy plant, in contrast to the tall, narrow growth habit of the other species. Other distinguishing marks are very lacy, fern-like leaves and fuzzy, sticky stems. Downy false foxglove (Aureolaria virginica) has softly hairy leaves and stems, but they are not sticky. Smooth false foxglove is recognized by a very smooth stem that is often tinted with purple.
All three false foxgloves always grow near oaks, and they are partially parasitic on the oaks.
- Synonyms: Gerardia pedicularia
- Family: broomrape (Orobanchaceae)
- Habitat: dry oak woods
- Height: 1-4 feet
- Flower size: 3/4 inch wide
- Flower color: yellow
- Flowering time: August to September
- Origin: native
