Willow-Leaved Loosestrife

(Lysimachia ephemerum)

Willow-Leaved Loosestrife (Lysimachia ephemerum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lysimachia ephemerum, commonly known as Willow-leaved Loosestrife, is a hardy herbaceous perennial that is native to riparian zones, damp meadows, and stream banks in southwestern Europe and northwest Africa. It typically grows to a height of 3 to 4 feet (about 1 meter) with a similar spread. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves resembling those of willows, and in early summer, it produces erect racemes of delicate white flowers with contrasting purple stamens, which are highly attractive to pollinators.

Willow-leaved Loosestrife is valued for its vertical accent in garden design and its ability to thrive in moist conditions, making it suitable for waterside plantings, rain gardens, and as a border plant in cottage gardens. It holds the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional performance in cultivation. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it requires consistently moist soil for optimal growth. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread via rhizomes and may require control in smaller garden settings. It is not typically prone to serious pests or diseases, but powdery mildew and rust can occasionally affect the foliage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to riparian zones, damp meadows, and stream banks in southwestern Europe and northwest Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Willowleaf loosestrife

Scientific Names: , Lysimachia ephemerum, Bernardina salicifolia, Lysimachia glauca, Lysimachia otani, Lysimachia salicifolia,

GBIF Accepted Name: