Lythrum - Loosestrife

(Lyth'rum)

DESCRIPTION: These hardy perennials are natives to North America, Asia, Africa and Europe. Lythrums grow up to 3 feet high and are great for planting near the water, in bog gardens and anywhere the soil remains fairly moist. L. salicaria variety Feuerkerze, Purple Loosestrife, is an erect-growing plant with oval to narrowly lance-shaped, mid-green leaves, which are arranged opposite each other or in whorls. From mid- to late summer, thick spikes of small, 4-petaled, rose-pink flowers are produced. This plant is very invasive and not allowed to be grown in some states.

POTTING: Plant Loosestrife in one-gallon containers of fertile soil and set in shallow water that just covers the crowns, in sun or light shade.

PROPAGATION: You can increase your plants by lifting and dividing them in the spring or fall.

VARIETIES: L. salicaria & var. Feuerkerze, L. virgatum & var. The Rocket; The Beacon; Brightness; Rose Queen; Morden's Pink; Robert; Lady Sackville.

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