Invasive Species: Purple Loosestrife
Lythrum salicaria
Hailing from Eurasia, Purple loosestrife was introduced to the east coast of North America in the 1800s.
Why is it important to control?
Loosestrife is a serious invader of wetlands, rendering them unsuitable for waterfowl and other birds.
How can you identify it?
Habitat: | Wet soils such as wetlands, marshes and riparian areas |
Life Cycle: | Perennial |
Height: | Up to 6.5ft |
Leaf Description: | Lance-shaped leaves are arranged opposite or whorls of three |
Fruit & Flower Description: | Flowers are usually magenta but can be pink or white and are arranged on long showy spikes. Seeds are extremely small |
Bloom Time: | July to September |