Contents
Description
Lysimachia Quadrifolia, commonly known as Whorled Loosestrife, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is native to the eastern part of North America and can be found in various habitats, such as moist woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and prefers a slightly acidic soil with good drainage. It produces yellow flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Lysimachia |
Appearance
The leaves of Lysimachia Quadrifolia are arranged in whorls of four or five, and they have a lanceolate shape with a smooth margin. The plant has a slender stem with a reddish tint, and it produces small yellow flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in terminal racemes. The plant blooms from June to August and can be propagated by division or seed.
Care Guide
Lysimachia Quadrifolia requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or organic matter in the spring can help promote growth. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, and it can tolerate partial shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lysimachia Quadrifolia is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, or rust. These can be treated with a fungicide if necessary. The plant can also be affected by slugs, snails, or spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lysimachia Quadrifolia is native to the eastern part of North America and can be found in various habitats, such as moist woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with good drainage and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. The plant blooms from June to August and can be propagated by division or seed.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lysimachia Quadrifolia invasive?
A: No, Lysimachia Quadrifolia is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Lysimachia Quadrifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lysimachia Quadrifolia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: What is the best time to divide Lysimachia Quadrifolia?
A: The best time to divide Lysimachia Quadrifolia is in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should Lysimachia Quadrifolia be fertilized?
A: Lysimachia Quadrifolia does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of compost or organic matter in the spring can help promote growth.
Related Plants
- Lysimachia nummularia (Creeping Jenny)
- Lysimachia punctata (Yellow Loosestrife)
- Lysimachia ciliata (Fringed Loosestrife)
References
- “Lysimachia Quadrifolia – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c930.
- “Whorled Loosestrife.” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lysimachia-quadrifolia/.
- “Lysimachia Quadrifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LYQU.
