Also known as Loosestrife · 698 saves
Lysimachia
Lysimachia, the genus most gardeners know as loosestrife. We track 22 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 20 most-saved Lysimachia varieties
Browse all 22 Lysimachia varieties →
7 species of Lysimachia
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Lysimachia in Sow
Save the Lysimachia you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Lysimachia
Whats common across all Lysimachia varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 22 most-grown of them.
The Lysimachia year
- DivideMarch and September86% of varieties
Divide every 2-3 years to control spread or rejuvenate clumps
- PruneJune and July77% of varieties
Cut back runners or shape lightly after flowering finishes
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March68% of varieties
Clear away old foliage debris before new growth begins
- PlantMarch, April, September and October64% of varieties
Plant in spring or early fall for best establishment
Do
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape after flowering
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize in late fall
What goes wrong with Lysimachia
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Spider Mites | Webbing on foliage and speckled leaves | Increase humidity and spray with insecticidal soap |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; no routine treatment needed |
| Slugs | Holes in leaves and slime trails | Use organic slug bait or hand-pick at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and treat with sulfur fungicide |
| Root Rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
Making more Lysimachia
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring.
- Divide clumps with a sharp knife or spade.
- Replant divisions immediately in prepared soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Allow 6 weeks to establish.
Cuttings
- Select healthy semi-hardwood stems in late summer.
- Dip cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil.
- Maintain high humidity and keep in indirect light for 6 weeks.
Lysimachia questions
How many types of Lysimachia are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 22 distinct Lysimachia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 698 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Lysimachia grow in?
Across its varieties, Lysimachia covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Lysimachia bloom?
Most Lysimachia varieties bloom in mid-summer, late spring, summer, late spring to early summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Lysimachia should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.