LYTHRUM alatum

Description

Lythrum alatum

Height x Spread: 80cm x 60cm

This pretty perennial will set viable seed but is not invasive like its cousin Lythrum salicaria. It thrives in moist or wet conditions in full sun and dislikes acidic soil.  Native to the USA, it has upright stems which are square with slightly winged angles. The opposing leaves are lanceolate, and the pinky purple flowers spiral up the inflorescence.

The flowers emerge in May and continue until September. In the USA it is pollinated by hummingbirds, but in the U.K it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Deer do not appear to be interested in this plant. 

Ideal for pondside and bog gardens or sunny areas that stay consistently moist. It also makes a good cut flower as the stems remain erect in all but the harshest conditions.