Featured Plant of The Day: Purple Loosestrife 'Firecandle'

Lythrum salicaria 'Firecandle'

Purple Loosestrife

Type    Perennial
Hardy range    4A to 9B
Height    24" to 36" / 60cm to 90cm
Spread    12" to 18" / 30cm to 45cm
Growth rate    Fast
Form    Upright or erect
Exposure    Full sun
Persistence    Deciduous

Bloom Color    Pink and purple
Bloom Time    Summer and Fall

The flowers are suitable for cut flowers.

Environment
This plant tolerates occasional wetness.
This plant will grow in dry to moist soil.
Suitable soil is well-drained/loamy.
The pH preference is  a neutral soil.

Leaf Color    Green

Landscape Uses
-    Container plantings
-    Seashore planting
-    Border
-    Massing
-    Specimen

Attributes and Features
-    Naturalizing
-    Wetlands plant
-    Attracts butterflies

Culture Notes
Many cultivars are available which should not be confused with the species.  The species is outlawed in many states because it will quickly take over a wetland habitat. The cultivars are slower to increase and are usually divided in the spring. Self-sows easily.  Expect fall color from the foliage.  'Firecandle' has bright rosey-red blossoms.