The genus name Lathraea derives from the ancient greek λαθραῖος (lathraîos), meaning "clandestine",[1] which is a reference to the fact that it is inconspicuous until it flowers.

[2] The phylogeny of the genera of Rhinantheae has been explored using molecular characters.

These three genera share phylogenetic affinities with members of the core Rhinantheae: Bartsia, Euphrasia, Tozzia, Hedbergia, Bellardia, and Odontites.

Melampyrum Rhynchocorys Lathraea Rhinanthus Bartsia sensu stricto (Bartsia alpina) Euphrasia Hedbergia   (including Bartsia decurva + B. longiflora) Tozzia Odontites sensu lato   (including Bartsiella   and Bornmuellerantha) Bellardia Neobartsia (New World Bartsia) Parentucellia In Pavel Ivanovich Melnikov's "In the Forests" a Russian wise woman (znakharka) calls this plant[which?]

Peter's Cross and says it protects against devils but only if collected with a prayer to God.