Yellow loosestrife
lysimachia vulgaris
Also known as: ["Yellow loosestrife","Swamp loosestrife"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its bright yellow flowers and preference for wet habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Lysimachia |
| Botanical Name: | Lysimachia vulgaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: near ponds, streams, or in a consistently moist garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; can tolerate slightly wet conditions but not waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if the plant becomes overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot, dry conditions
Maintain consistently moist soil; avoid waterlogging; water less in winter.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; use organic alternatives like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C) with indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation and encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during growing season; reduce frequency in dormant periods; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, reduces flowering, and may cause root damage in prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLysimachia vulgaris is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLysimachia vulgaris is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLysimachia vulgaris is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Lysimachia vulgaris attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright yellow flowers.
Q: Is Lysimachia vulgaris toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown, so caution is advised.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Lysimachia vulgaris?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring consistent moisture and partial sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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