Purple Loosestrife
Lythrum salicaria
Common name: |
Purple Loosestrife |
Family: |
Lythraceae |
Size: |
0.6–1.5m x 1m |
Description: |
Erect perennial herb with angular stems, dying back after flowering |
Leaves: |
Stem-clasping egg-shaped to oblong or lance-shaped leaves 1.5–7cm x 3–15mm, in pairs, occasionally 3's |
Flowering: |
Stalkless axillary clusters of 3–5 small tubular flowers forming a terminal leafy spike |
Flower colour: |
Purple to magenta |
Flowering time: |
September to March |
Growing conditions: |
Shallow water and swampy soils in wetlands; frost tolerant; full sun, semi-shade |
Garden use: |
A most attractive wetland plant with well displayed flowers. Grow in and beside shallow ponds. Prune back to rootstock after flowering. |
Conservation status: |
Locally common within its preferred growing conditions |
Generally |
|
Bird attracting: |
No |
Butterfly attracting: |
Food for caterpillars and nectar for butterflies |
Frog habitat: |
No |
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