Lysimachia congestiflora aka Dense Flowered Loosestrife

Lysimachia congestiflora is a low perennial in the primrose family. Gardeners know it as golden globes or dense-flowered loosestrife. Its native range runs from Nepal to China and northern Indo-China. It also grows in Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. Wild plants grow beside ditches, roads and rice fields. They also grow along damp forest edges. These sites reflect its need for moist soil.

This plant forms a close mat rather than upright clumps. It grows about 0.25–0.5 feet (0.08–0.15 metres) tall. Garden plants spread about 0.5–1 foot (0.15–0.3 metres) wide, sometimes farther. Its green stems creep across the ground. Roots form where stem nodes touch the soil. This growth helps it fill gaps as ground cover. The simple leaves are medium green and shaped like eggs. They grow in pairs or whorls along the stems. Leaves reach about 0.125 feet (0.038 metres) long. In mild winters, plants keep some or all their leaves. This occurs where temperatures stay above about 15°F.

Bright yellow flowers stand out against the green leaves. Each bloom forms a small cup with five petals. Flowers measure about 0.06 feet (0.019 metres) across. They gather in clusters at the ends of stems. Bloom runs from May through July, spanning late spring and summer. Plants raised from seed can flower in their first year. This allows gardeners to grow them as annuals.

Give this plant moist soil that drains well. Soil rich in humus suits it best. It grows in full sun or partial shade. Full sun gives the best results in cooler northern gardens. Afternoon shade helps in places with hot summers. Its water needs are moderate, and routine care is light. It is hardy in USDA zones 7–9. A sheltered site and winter mulch may allow survival in zone 6. Gardeners can raise new plants from seed, stem cuttings or divisions.

Use it at border fronts or in rock gardens. Its stems can trail over rocks and low walls. It also suits pond edges, rain gardens and other waterside sites. Hanging baskets and pots offer places to grow it as an annual. Though its stems spread, Missouri Botanical Garden does not consider it invasive. Serious insect and disease problems are uncommon. Rust and leaf spots can still affect the foliage.