Loosestrife. A clump-forming perennial with narrow grey-green leaves and attractive spikes of white flowers. Height 1m. Spread 30cm. Flowers June to July. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy.
Lysimachia ephemerum, also known as loosestrife, is a clump-forming perennial that produces tall, graceful spikes of pure white flowers above narrow grey-green leaves. Flowering from June to July, this hardy plant grows up to 1m tall with a spread of around 30cm, making it ideal for borders and cottage-style gardens.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Lysimachia ephemerum is in spring, allowing roots to establish before the summer flowering season. This ensures strong growth and healthy blooms.
Autumn: Planting Lysimachia ephemerum in early autumn is also effective. It gives the perennial time to settle before its next growth cycle, resulting in a more vigorous display.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Lysimachia ephemerum thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least half a day of direct sunlight to promote tall, elegant flowering spikes.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Lysimachia ephemerum. This perennial dislikes waterlogged conditions. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots of Lysimachia ephemerum ample space to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the soil before planting to encourage robust growth.
Planting: Place the plant in the hole with the root ball level to the surrounding soil, then backfill firmly to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water well to help the soil settle around the roots of Lysimachia ephemerum. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Water regularly during dry periods, but let the soil dry slightly between waterings. Lysimachia ephemerum prefers evenly moist conditions but not excess water.
Dormant Season: Water sparingly when growth slows, as the plant requires minimal moisture.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Lysimachia ephemerum the nutrients it needs for fresh growth and flower production.
Summer: A second light feed during flowering can prolong the display of elegant white flower spikes.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove faded flowers to maintain the neat appearance of Lysimachia ephemerum and encourage more blooms.
Autumn Pruning: Once flowering is complete, cut stems back to ground level. This prepares the plant for its next growth cycle.
Mulching
Spring: Add a layer of mulch around the base of Lysimachia ephemerum in spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: A thicker mulch layer can help protect roots and maintain soil structure through colder months.
Supporting the Plant
The upright stems of Lysimachia ephemerum are generally strong, but in exposed areas, staking may be required to prevent damage from wind.
Final Tips
Lysimachia ephemerum is a low-maintenance perennial that brings elegance to borders with its tall white spikes and attractive grey-green foliage. By planting it in full sun or partial shade, enriching the soil, and following the care steps above, you’ll enjoy a stunning display from early to mid-summer.
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