California Loosestrife

Lythrum californicum

Native to:
Mexico, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Lythraceae
Genus:
Lythrum
Species:
Lythrum californicum
USDA Symbol:
LYCA4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Subshrub
Height:
120 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
purple, pink

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
moist, sandy to loamy soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
often found in wetland areas

Propagation & Germination

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: Claude AI