Plant · GBIF taxon 3188736
purple loosestrife
Lythrum salicariaPurple loosestrife is an upright wetland perennial with square stems and dense spikes of magenta flowers. Opposite or whorled narrow leaves help distinguish it from several other tall plants of marsh edges.
wetland plantflower spikeinvasive potential
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Produces energy through photosynthesis and absorbs water and minerals through perennial roots
Predators
- leaf beetles
- root weevils
- grazing mammals
ThreatsDrainage and herbivory within its native range; control efforts target invasive populations elsewhere
HabitatsMarshes, wet meadows, streambanks, ditches, and disturbed shorelines
Life spanA long-lived perennial capable of persisting for many years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLythraceae
- SpeciesLythrum salicaria
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Do not move seed-bearing stems between wetlands because populations can spread rapidly.
Responsible observation
- Identify: Check for a square stem, narrow opposite leaves, and crowded purple flower spikes.
- Report: Follow local guidance before removing a population because legal status varies.
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.