Common Name:
Purple Loosestrife, Purple Lythrum
Scientific Name:
Lythrum salicaria L.
Family:
Lythraceae


Photo courtesy of
Weeds of the West

Description: Purple loosestrife is a perennial plant producing up to 50 stems from one root. The stems are erect and grow from 6 to 8 feet tall. Flowers are deep pink in color and form long spikes. Leaves are narrow, with entire margins. Purple loosestrife was introduced from Europe as an ornamental plant and bee forage.

Control: Perennial plants require depletion of nutrient reserves in the root system, prevention of seed production and prevention of dispersal. This plant has attractive deep pink flowers. Resist the temptation to purchase it from nursery catalogs. Root fragments can sprout, so remove as much plant material as possible.