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WANTED Purple Loosestrife

Purple loosetrife is a showy rhizomatous perennial that originates from Europe and can form dense infestations in streamside and wetland areas throughout the U.S. It can impede water flow, outcompete native vegetation and thereby, harm wildlife habitat. A popular ornamental plant, purple loosestrife can be bought in a non-invasive variety at some nursuries. Most varieties however are aggessive and should be closely monitored.

Distinguishing Features One-and-a-half to eight feet tall. Stems can be smooth to hairy, four-sided, and multibranched. Leaves are four inches long, lance-shaped, and whorled. Flowers are one inch in diameter, magenta-colored and have five to seven petals that are wrinkled and look like they've been crushed. They are arranged in long racemes (single flowers at intervals along a long stem). Crowned flower spikes appear at the stem tips in mid-summer.

If You Spot This Culprit, Report the location to a local land manager or park ranger. Avoid walking on, driving on, or camping in infested areas. Remove all weed seeds from your clothing, shoes, pets, camping gear, and tire treads before moving on. Keep an eye on any varieties used as ornamental plants and do not allow them to spread into natural areas.

We have reason to believe this criminal weed is hiding out in the surrounding area.

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Reward: Knowing you have contributed to a healthier environment.

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Last Updated: January 25, 2005

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