287B-2-Lythrum-hyssopifolia-Richard-Hartland.jpg

Lythrum hyssopifolia

Lesser or Small Loosestrife

Annual or perennial spreading herb, sometimes becoming erect, stems ribbed.

Additional information

  • FamilyLythraceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • SizeProstrate-30 cm x 20-30 cm
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesNarrow to oblong light green stalkless leaves 0.5-4 cm x 2-10 mm.
  • Flower colourPink to mauve
  • Flowering timeSeptember to April
  • FlowersSingle tiny tubular flowers with spreading petals in upper leaf axils.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsMoist soil in grasslands, open and riparian forests. Full sun, semi-shade.
  • Garden useA dainty herb which will self sow in moist areas but is never abundant. Tolerates drying out over summer. Use around water areas.
  • Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: 1 Colleen Miller ©; 2 Richard Hartland ©; 3 Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

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  • 13 Manna Gum Riparian Forest - Upper Yarra (EVC 18)
  • 12 Manna Gum Riparian Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 18)
  • 22 Silver-leaf Stringybark Heathy Woodland (EVC 48)
  • 44 Grassy Wetland Complex (EVC 125)
  • 18 Messmate Shrubby Foothill Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 45)
  • 38 Yellow Box Valley Grassy Forest – Middle Yarra (EVC 47)
  • 35 Floodplain Wetland Complex (EVC 172)
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