Purple loosestrife, Lythrum salicaria, is a tall-growing wildflower that grows naturally on banks of streams and around ponds. It has strong, upright stems, topped in summer with long, poker-like heads of bright purple-red flowers. Its flowers are extremely attractive to bees and butterflies.
For best results grow Lythrum salicaria in moist soil, such as around the edge of a pond. Plants shouldn't need staking but deadhead spent blooms regularly to maintain a tidy appearance, and divide clumps every three to five years to avoid congestion. Lythrum salicaria works well grown alongside other moisture-loving plants such as inula.
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Lythrum ‘Salicaria’ and wildlife
Lythrum ‘Salicaria’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Lythrum ‘Salicaria’ poisonous?
Lythrum ‘Salicaria’ has no toxic effects reported.