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| Purple loosestrife description |
| Plant type: Flowering perennial Bloom period: July – August Distinguishing characteristics: Leaves are opposite, elongate, and entire (smooth-edged) and attach to a square stem. Showy, five to six-petaled purple flowers bloom in a spike. Plants grow 1-4 feet tall. Habitat Quality: This species is a non-native invasive that occurred in such large numbers that a leaf-feeding beetle (Galerucella calmariensis) was introduced to the Midwestern United States beginning in the late 1990’s to control purple loosestrife populations. Plants throughout Michigan will likely be controlled by these beetles, but cultural control, including herbicide application, may be needed to keep populations in check in other areas. |
| Where can you find this plant? |
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Partners: The Nature Conservancy, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, The Stewardship Network, Michigan DNR Landowner Incentive Program. Web developer: J.N. Landis, MSU IPM Program. Read disclaimer
