Overview
Lythrum alatum is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Lythrum, part of the Lythraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lythrum alatum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and wildflower meadow.
About
Lythrum alatum, commonly known as winged loosestrife or milkweed, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Lythrum genus. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and can be grown in a variety of soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with moisture levels ranging from moist but well-drained to poorly-drained. It is hardy in the UK (H7) and suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects in both exposed and sheltered locations. Lythrum alatum is ideal for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and wildflower meadows, offering interest through summer and autumn. Propagation is by division or basal cuttings in spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lythrum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Lythrum alatum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lythrum alatum
- Propagation
- Propagate by division or basal cuttings in spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lythrum alatum?
Lythrum alatum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Lythrum alatum need?
Lythrum alatum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
Is Lythrum alatum hardy in the UK?
Lythrum alatum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Lythrum alatum?
Propagate by division or basal cuttings in spring.
More in the Lythrum genus
- Lythrum hyssopifoliagrass poly
- Lythrum portulawater purslane
- Lythrum salicaria 'Florarose'
- Lythrum salicaria 'Swirl'Purple Loosestrife
- Lythrum virgatumwand loosestrife
- Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple'Wand Loosestrife