Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

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  • A perennial that spreads by roots and seeds
  • Grows up to six to eight feet tall
  • Produces a spike of showy purple flowers in August
  • Stems have square edges
  • In the past, this weed was intentionally planted in gardens, but has now escaped and is very difficult to control

Flower
(click for larger view)

Seedling
  • Grows in moist or marshy sites along streams or ditches, and in wetlands
  • Do NOT pull, dig, or cut the roots, as this may stimulate new growth
  • Chemical controls are needed

    • Plant    		 Please click on any picture for a larger view.
    Infestation


    Sue Donaldson
    University of Nevada Cooperative Extension
    5305 Mill St. Reno, NV 89502
    (775) 784-4848  Email: sue@washoeweeds.org

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