Blues and Purples and Greens

PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE (Lythrum salicaria L.) Beautiful as it may be, this invasive plant is "plantia" non-gratia in more and more of the United States. Loosestrife alters the chemical and hydrological processes in wetlands. The leaves of the purple loosestrife decompose quickly in the fall resulting in a nutrient flush. Leaves of native species decompose in the spring. This release of nutrients at a time of little primary production results in significant alterations of wetland function. This plant also clogs flowing water sources. For more detailed information on purple loosestrife and treatment methods, please visit http://www.invasive.org/eastern/biocontrol/11PurpleLoosestrife.html.

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