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Lythrum salicaria (Purple loosestrife)

Lythrum salicaria Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner

(Based on 2 user reviews)

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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Lythrum salicaria LITH-rum sal-ih-KARE-ee-ah Common Name: Purple loosestrife Genus: Lythrum
The showy purple spikes of purple loosestrife are attractive in the garden and along roadsides, but the plant's rampant spread has greatly reduced the ecological value of marshes by displacing native wetland vegetation such as cattails (Typha spp.) that wildlife uses as food or shelter. One mature plant can produce over 2 million seeds a year that are easily transported by the wind or water into wetlands. The seeds easily germinate, and no natural predator holds this plant in check. Even cultivars reported to be sterile can produce highly fertile seed if grown with other cultivars or wild loosestrife.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Showy purple flower spikes. Highly invasive in all regions.
 Care: Grows in any moist soil in full sun.
 Propagation: Self-sows with abandon.
 Problems: Slugs, snails, Japanese beetles.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium to Wet
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Fall; Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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