Purple Loosestrife

Purple Loosestrife
There are 38 species of purple- or pink-flowered annuals, perennials, and small shrubs in this cosmopolitan genus. Lythrium salicaria (purple loosestrife) is an adaptable, long-lived species with a range of brightly colored cultivars for damp, rich soil. It has escaped from cultivation in many places, becoming an invasive weed, in wetlands. As a medicinal herb, L. salicaria has a long history of use in European folk medicine, and was widely used in cholera epidemics in England during the 19th century, with reputedly "electrical" effects. Scientific research has shown it is effective against rickettsiae, very small bacteria, transmitted by live, ticks, and rat fleas, that cause typhus and other feverish diseases. Its astringency is such that it was once used for tanning leather, but it apparently leaves mucous surfaces moist. The name Lythrum comes from the Greek lythron, "blood", which may refer to the plant's medicinal uses.

Tall, upright perennial with 4-angled stems and willow-like leaves, to 7cm (3in) long. Bright pink-purple flowers are produced in whorled spikes from mid-summer to mid-autumn.

Common Name:

Purple Loosestrife

Botanical Name:

Lythrum salicaria

Genus:

Lythrum

Family:

Lythraceae

Native Location:

Europe, Asia, N Africa

Cultivation:

Moist to wet, neutral to alkaline soil, or shallow water in sun or partial shade. Import of plants and seeds is prohibited in parts of the USA and Canada.

Propagation:

By seed sown at 13-18°C (55-63°F) in spring (species only); by division in spring; by basal cuttings in spring or early summer. Self-sows readily in damp conditions.

Harvest:

Plants are cut when in flowers and used fresh, or dried for use in decoctions and infusions.

Variations:

Feuerkerze syn. Firecandle Has bright rose-pink flowers. Height: 90cm (36in)	Happy Is dwarf, with small leaves and deep pink flowers. Height: 60cm (24in)
Lady Sackville Has deep pink flowers Height: 90cm (36in)	Robert Has a compact habit and bright pink flowers. Height: 90cm (36in)

Height:

60cm-1.5m (2-5ft)

Width:

45cm-1.2m (1.5-4ft)

Hardiness:

Z4-9

Parts Used:

Whole Plant

Properties:

A highly astringent, anti-bacterial herb that is diuretic, soothes irritated tissues, and controls bleeding.

Medicinal Uses:

Internally for diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, typhus, hepatitis, hemorrhage, excessive menstruation, and vaginal discharge. Externally for wounds, sores, impetigo, eczema, eye infections, and vaginal discharge. Combined with Gnaphalium uliginosum (See, Marsh Cudweed) as a gargle for sore throat.

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