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Description
Lysimachia Clethroides, commonly known as gooseneck loosestrife, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Primulaceae family. It is native to East Asia, specifically China, Korea, and Japan. The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide, forming clumps of upright stems with lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The plant produces long, slender, and curving white flowers that resemble the neck of a goose, hence its common name. The plant is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes because of its attractive foliage and unique flowers that bloom during summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Lysimachia |
Appearance
Lysimachia Clethroides has lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color, measuring about 3 to 5 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are arranged alternately and are smooth and glossy. The plant produces long, slender, and curving white flowers that resemble the neck of a goose. The flowers grow in whorls along the stems and bloom from mid to late summer. The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide, forming clumps of upright stems. The plant is deciduous and goes dormant in winter.
Care Guide
Lysimachia Clethroides is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve its texture and fertility.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, although it can tolerate full shade. In areas with hot and dry weather, provide afternoon shade to prevent the plant from wilting.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lysimachia Clethroides is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Snails and Slugs: These pests can chew on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use traps or pesticides to control them.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop brown spots. Remove infected leaves and apply fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop a powdery white coating. Remove infected leaves and apply fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
Habitat
Lysimachia Clethroides is native to East Asia, specifically China, Korea, and Japan. The plant grows in moist, shady areas, such as forest edges, stream banks, and wetlands. In gardens and landscapes, the plant is commonly used as a border plant, groundcover, or accent plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lysimachia Clethroides deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is relatively deer-resistant.
Q: Can Lysimachia Clethroides grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots and the soil is kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I divide Lysimachia Clethroides?
A: The plant can be divided every 2 to 3 years in early spring or fall to maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Q: Can Lysimachia Clethroides tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant. Water it regularly during hot and dry weather to prevent wilting.
Related Plants
- Lysimachia nummularia
- Lysimachia punctata
- Lysimachia vulgaris
- Lysimachia ciliata
References
- “Lysimachia clethroides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287683.
- “Lysimachia Clethroides.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2120/gooseneck-loosestrife/.
- “Lysimachia Clethroides.” The Spruce. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/gooseneck-loosestrife-plant-profile-4843938.
