Lysimachia punctata - Loosestrife

Lysimachia punctata, also known as punctate loosestrife, is easily recognisable in summer with its clusters of bright yellow flowers arranged in successive tiers. This perennial is the epitome of robustness. It grows rapidly in tall clumps in all types of soil that are not too dry, and looks stunning when planted in large groups. It grows well in all exposures.

Lysimachia punctata is a giant cousin of primroses, belonging to the Primulaceae family. It is native to central and southern Europe, and Asia Minor (up to Turkey). It is a robust perennial plant with slightly trailing rhizomes, forming clumps that can reach 1 to 1.2m (3 to 4ft) in height when in bloom and occupying 50cm (20in) of ground space. it has a rapid growth rate. The golden yellow star-shaped flowers, 25mm (1in) in diameter, appear in July-August. They bloom in the axils of the leaves, forming a large elongated bouquet. This highly floriferous plant is particularly sturdy and can withstand most climates. The clumps consist of many very straight and upright stems, with deciduous, villous, and vibrant green foliage. The leaves have strongly marked veins. They are lanceolate, oblong, and grouped in sets of 4 around the stem. This plant has a powerful and deep-rooted system.

Lysimachia punctata will find its place in all the moist areas of the garden, where the soil never dries out. It is particularly beautiful when planted en masse, in a flower bed, or on a large bank with Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'. Pair it with other plants that appreciate moisture, such as willowherbs, marsh mallows, meadowsweets, rodgersias, and veronicastrums, as well as hostas and ferns in partial shade. It is a good plant for banks with well-drained soil, as it contributes to stabilisation. However, it can do without having its feet in water and will be content with deep soil, in the company of rhubarb, officinal angelica, Oriental poppies, and foxgloves.