Lythrum salicaria
Lythrum salicaria purple loosestrife
Add to MyPlants
View Locations
This highly invasive plant is often seen covering swampy meadows with spikes of magenta. Small, 6-petaled flowers grow in long tapering spikes. Downy leaves are opposite, sometimes whorled on a square stem.
Habitat & Range
Grows in wet meadows and swamps.
Present in most counties in the state.
Range is from southern Canada to the central U.S.
Wetland codes
| EMP: | FACW |
|---|---|
| NCNE: | OBL |
Phenology
Flowers July to Septmeber.
Characteristics
Flowers magenta/purple color, 6 petals.
Leaves stalkless, downy, opposite or in 3s.
Lythrum salicaria purple loosestrife
Plant form & habitat
Blooming
Flowers
Flowers
Plant form & habitat
Wetland habitat
With cattails
Plant Summary
perennial forb
invasive, noxious, common
flower color: purple
Common Names
purple loosestrife
Comments
Have you spotted this plant in your area? We'd love to hear about your experience! Share your comments or questions about the plant below. Comments are moderated before posting.