Lythrum salicaria
Purple Loosestrife
Erect perennial herb with angular stems, dying back after flowering.
Additional information
- FamilyLythraceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Size0.6-1.5 m x 1 m
- Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
- LeavesStem-clasping egg-shaped to oblong or lance-shaped leaves 1.5-7 cm x 3-15 mm, in pairs, occasionally 3's.
- Flower colourPurple to magenta
- Flowering timeSeptember to March
- FlowersStalkless axillary clusters of 3-5 small tubular flowers forming a terminal leafy spike.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingBoth food for caterpillars and nectar for butterflies.
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsShallow water and swampy soils in wetlands. Frost tolerant. Full sun, semi-shade.
- Garden useA most attractive wetland plant with well displayed flowers. Grow in and beside shallow ponds. Prune back to rootstock after flowering.
- Commercially availableGenerally
- Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1 Colleen Miller ©; 2-4 Marilyn Bull ©
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