Lysimachia paridiformis

Lysimachia paridiformis belongs to the primrose family, Primulaceae. It is a perennial, which means it lives for years. It comes from south-central China, and its range reaches Hunan. It grows in temperate regions, but is not native to Britain or Ireland. Plants reach about 1 foot (0.3 metres) tall. Its small size suits damp sites where taller plants would take over.

In the wild, it grows on hillsides and beside streams. It also grows in damp ground beneath forest trees. It lives in mountain valleys and wet ravines too. Records place it at 1,640 to 4,590 feet (500–1,400 metres). These sites help explain its need for moist soil. It suits woods in gardens and the edges of shade. Bog gardens and pond edges also suit its needs. Its short height makes it a choice for low planting there.

Flowers appear from July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen to the flowers. The plant is self-fertile: it can set seed with its own pollen. The supplied species records do not state the flower colour. Nor do they give clear details of leaves, stems or fruit. These gaps limit what we can say about its looks. Its summer flowers and small size still help with garden plans.

Plants For A Future calls this species easy to grow. It grows well in moist loam and accepts heavy clay. It also grows in sand if the soil stays moist. It accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline soil. Grow it in light shade or with no shade. It prefers moist to wet ground and can grow in water. The source suggests shallow water based on its wild sites. It lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9. Sow seed in spring or autumn in a cold frame. Move young plants into their own pots when large enough to handle. You can also divide plants in spring or autumn. Keep small clumps under cover until their roots take hold.

The records list no edible uses and no known hazards. This does not mean the plant is safe to eat. Folk medicine uses the whole plant and its flowering tops. Reported uses treat coughs, pain and problems with digestion. Fresh crushed plant parts also serve as a poultice. This means a dressing placed on the skin. These are records of folk use, not proof that treatments work. The source does not flag a risk of becoming a weed. The supplied evidence gives no pest or disease details for this species.