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Purple Loosestrife

Invasive Species in Michigan

What is it?

Purple Loosestrife is on Michigan's Invasive Species watch list. It blooms a cluster of purple flowers that can grow to be 4-10 feet tall and persist throughout the summer. The leaves attach to its stem in an alternating pattern.

Impacting Local Habitats

Purple Loosestrife chokes out native plants. This reduces the amount of native plant and animal biodiversity in the infested area.

Treatment

The best way to remove and prevent Purple Loosestrife from spreading is with controlled herbicides OR by pulling out the entire plant and its roots, black bagging them (be sure to tie the bag up tight!) and throwing them away.

Health