Purple Loosestrife
Purple loosestrife is an attractive perennial that was brought to the United States by the horticultural industry from its native range in Europe and Asia. It grows 4-7 feet tall and produces purple flower spikes from June through September. It thrives in sunny wetlands and moist soil.
Each plant produces millions of seeds and can spread by sending up shoots from the root systems. Purple loosestrife can take over our wetlands and crowd out the native plants our wildlife depend on for survival. For this reason, purple loosestrife is a restricted species in Michigan that means “it is unlawful to possess, introduce, import, sell or offer that species for sale”.
Fortunately there is a biocontrol available for Purple Loosestrife. Galerucella beetles have been imported from Europe to control this invasive plant. The larvae tunnel into the roots and the adult beetles eat pin-head sized holes in the leaves. These beetles are able to reduce the monocultures of Purple Loosestrife, although the populations may fluctuate greatly from year to year. The Kalamazoo Nature Center may be able to supply beetles for local infestations; more information is available from the nature center and the Oakland County CISMA.
Each plant produces millions of seeds and can spread by sending up shoots from the root systems. Purple loosestrife can take over our wetlands and crowd out the native plants our wildlife depend on for survival. For this reason, purple loosestrife is a restricted species in Michigan that means “it is unlawful to possess, introduce, import, sell or offer that species for sale”.
Fortunately there is a biocontrol available for Purple Loosestrife. Galerucella beetles have been imported from Europe to control this invasive plant. The larvae tunnel into the roots and the adult beetles eat pin-head sized holes in the leaves. These beetles are able to reduce the monocultures of Purple Loosestrife, although the populations may fluctuate greatly from year to year. The Kalamazoo Nature Center may be able to supply beetles for local infestations; more information is available from the nature center and the Oakland County CISMA.
