Also known as Coton Rouge · Fackelblomster · Hairy Purple Loosestrife
Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) is a tall, showy wetland perennial with spires of bright magenta flowers. It thrives in moist conditions and is a valuable pollinat
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun for best flowering, but can tolerate partial shade.
High
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist to wet soil. Do not allow to dry out.
Clay, Loam, Sandy, Silty, Well-drained, Poorly-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 3-9. Tolerates a wide range of temperatures.
Aquatic
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Requires little to no fertilizer; can be prone to overgrowth with excess nutrients.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Not considered toxic to humans or pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Purple loosestrife thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. It tolerates waterlogged conditions and can even be grown in shallow water gardens.
Ensure the soil never completely dries out for optimal growth and flowering.
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage repeat blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can be aggressive. Cut back the plant in late fall or early spring to tidy its appearance and remove dead foliage.
This also helps manage its spread.
Purple loosestrife is easily propagated by seed, division, or stem cuttings. Seeds can be sown in fall or early spring. Division of established clumps is best done in spring or fall.
Cuttings can be taken in early summer.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established plants as they are vigorous growers. If container-grown plants become root-bound, repot them in spring into a larger container with fresh, moist potting mix.
Ensure good drainage in pots.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
Where Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Lythrum |
| Species | Lythrum salicaria |
Similar in genus Lythrum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
