Wildflowers
Lythrum salicaria -
Purple Loosestrife
This sizeable perennial thrives in a waterside or boggy environment. Narrow mid-green leaves that quickly spread to form a dense clump of foliage. In summer this is topped by elongated spikes of hot pink-purple starry flowers. Provides nectar for bumblebees, honeybees and butterflies.
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 75cm
- Spread
- 40cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Can be sown under cover all year round. Surface sow in-situ April-October in prepared soil raked to fine tilth. Gently rake in seeds and water until germination occurs. When sowing under cover, surface sow in trays of moist seed compost and cover with fine layer of soil. Water from base of tray and propagate at 18-22°C to encourage germination. Transfer seedlings to individual pots as soon as large enough to handle. Acclimatise to the outdoors and transplant to garden 50cm apart once frosts have passed.
Aftercare
Removed faded flowers to maintain a tidier appearance.
Gallery
Ref. SEL010