Lysimachia punctata aka Dotted Loosestrife

Taxonomy ID: 8290

Lysimachia punctata, also known as the dotted loosestrife, large yellow loosestrife, circle flower, or spotted loosestrife, is a vigorous perennial plant in the Primulaceae family. It forms a substantial clump of erect stems with lance-shaped leaves that have bold cream margins, sometimes tinged with pink. In mid-summer, this plant produces bowl-shaped, bright yellow flowers measuring 2.5cm wide, which appear in the upper leaf axils. It is important not to confuse Lysimachia punctata with the invasive weed Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Unlike the weed, this attractive species has been cultivated in gardens since Victorian times. It forms a bushy and fast-spreading clump of green leaves, with loose spikes of starry, bright-yellow flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. However, in order to prevent it from taking over the garden, it is necessary to reduce its size every year or two. Lysimachia punctata can tolerate shade under trees and benefits from regular summer watering. Additionally, it is highly attractive to butterflies and can be used for cutting in floral arrangements.

Common names

Dotted Loosestrife, Spotted Loosestrife, Large Yellow Loosestrife

More information about Dotted Loosestrife

How difficult is it to take care of Dotted Loosestrife

Dotted Loosestrife requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

What is the region of origin of Dotted Loosestrife

Dotted Loosestrife’s native range is Worldwide.

What are the water needs for Dotted Loosestrife

Dotted Loosestrife should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Dotted Loosestrife

Dotted Loosestrife loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Dotted Loosestrife

To ensure optimal growth, the Dotted Loosestrife prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

What's the right humidity for Dotted Loosestrife

The Dotted Loosestrife does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

How to fertilize Dotted Loosestrife

The Dotted Loosestrife should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Is Dotted Loosestrife toxic to humans/pets?

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

What is the growth pattern of Dotted Loosestrife

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

More info:
Wikipedia