Overview

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' is a plant with a clump forming habit in the genus Lythrum, part of the Lythraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' grows best in full sun, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, wildflower meadow and flower borders and beds.

About

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' is a clump-forming perennial in the Lythraceae with deciduous foliage that flowers in mid to late summer. It favours a sunny position and tolerates a range of soils from clay to loam, including damp or poorly drained ground. Fully hardy in UK gardens (H7), it reliably produces season-long blooms from July to September. Plant it where its upright summer inflorescences can be seen from paths or borders.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lythrum

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple'

Propagation
Division in spring
Pest resistance
Susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple'?

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' need?

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.

Is Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' hardy in the UK?

Lythrum virgatum 'Dropmore Purple' 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 virgatum 'Dropmore Purple'?

Division in spring.

More in the Lythrum genus

Browse all Lythrum