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Loosestrife Wikimedia Commons
Primulaceae

Loosestrife

Lysimachia punctata

Forgiveness and the resolution of strife.

Family
Primulaceae
Genus
Lysimachia
Native to
central and southeastern Europe, Turkey
Bloom season
Summer
Type
herbaceous perennial
Height
60–100 cm
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
moist, fertile
Water
medium to high
Hardiness
4–8
Lifespan
perennial; long-lived and spreading

Did you know

  • The genus is named after Lysimachus, King of Thrace, who supposedly calmed a raging bull with a loosestrife plant.
  • The common name 'loosestrife' literally means 'ending strife' — from the legend of its peace-making powers.
  • It spreads enthusiastically by underground runners, which can make it a garden thug if not contained.
  • The whorled yellow flowers ring the stem at each leaf node, creating a striking candelabra effect.
  • Unlike its invasive cousin purple loosestrife, this species stays relatively well-behaved in gardens.

Color meanings

Yellow

peace and reconciliation

Uses

  • cottage gardens
  • damp borders
  • pond margins
  • cut flowers