About
Odontites vernus, the red bartsia, is a semi-parasitic annual to 50 cm with slender, upright, branched, downy stems bearing oblong to lance-shaped, toothed leaves and pink, two-lipped flowers in summer. Commonly naturalised in grasslands, it is semi-parasitic on grass roots � an interesting wildflower for a wildflower meadow.
About the genus
Odontites are semi-parasitic annuals and perennials of open, grassy habitats with toothed leaves and two-lipped, typically pink or purple flowers. Grown as wildflowers in meadow and grassland settings.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in well-drained soils with low fertility and in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free