About
A clump-forming deciduous perennial plant to 80cm tall, with dark green strap-like leaves and sturdy upright stems, and flower spikes which bear clusters of bright purple-red flowers appearing from midsummer onwards.
About the genus
Lythrum can be annuals or herbaceous perennials, with simple leaves in opposite pairs and small star-shaped flowers in leafy racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any reliably moist soil in full sun. Performs best on banks of streams or around ponds but will also thrive in a moist, sunny border or bog garden
PruningDeadhead after flowering to prevent self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free