Gooseneck Loosestrife | Lysimachia clethroides

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Gooseneck loosestrife (Lysimachia clethroides) is a clump-forming perennial plant that is native to China and Japan and belongs to the Primulaceae family. It produces elegantly arched flower spikes full of tiny star-shaped flowers, which gives it its ‘gooseneck’ shape. The leaves turn reddy-orange in the fall, and it is an RHS award-winner for its elegance and color. It requires full to part shade, and care should be taken to control its easy spread.

How to Plant and Grow Gooseneck Loosestrife

Gooseneck loosestrife is an easy-to-grow perennial that prefers moist soils, partial shade and a sheltered position. It tolerates both acidic and alkaline soils, and should be planted in late summer. It prefers evenly moist soils, but can withstand short periods of drought. It requires warmth and shelter to grow well and can be planted in containers, or in the garden.

Light: Gooseneck loosestrife needs partial shade in order to flower best. Too much sun will cause the leaves to scorch and it may not flower at all. If in full sun, place in a shady area for at least part of the day.

Soil: Gooseneck loosestrife prefers moist and well-drained soils of either an acidic or alkaline nature. Make sure to give them plenty of organic matter like compost, as this will help maintain moisture and also provide nutrition.

Water: Gooseneck loosestrife needs a steady supply of water during the spring and summer months. Make sure to water after period of drought or during hot weather. This plant is not overly fussy when it comes to water, although it will do best with regular and even watering.

Temperature: Gooseneck loosestrife thrives in warmer climates, but will tolerate short periods of cold temperatures. It is meant to be grown as a perennial in temperate climates, however in cooler temperatures it may die back to the ground and start again in the spring.

Humidity: Gooseneck loosestrife does not need a high degree of humidity, and can cope quite well with lower and more dry air. However, it will benefit from the occasional misting during dry and hot weather.

Fertilizer: Gooseneck loosestrife does not need regular feeding. It produces better foliage if it is given some fertilizer, but over-fertilizing may lead to more foliage than flower production. A balanced slow-release fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 is ideal.

Meaning and Symbolism

The name Lysimachia clethroides is derived from the combination of two Greek words; Lysimachus, a botanist of classic times, and clethroides which means resembling to an alder. The alternate old common name “Wild Balsam” is derived from the Latin family name for the species, BALSAMINACEAE. This plant is believed to have an old-world feel thanks to its alternative common name.

The graceful shape of the Gooseneck loosestrife flower gives it a unique air of elegance and beauty, characteristics it is commonly ascribed with. Thus, this flower is often used to symbolize grace, beauty, and elegance. Additionally, this flower is sometimes used to symbolize unrequited love, innocence, and purity.

History, Mythology and Religious Significance

Gooseneck loosestrife has its roots set in many cultures, although it is particularly appreciated in Asia and Eastern Europe. In particular, it is known in China as an ornamental and medicinal herb. Moreover, in Korea it is popularly used as a floral decoration and in Japan as a base for floral paintings.

In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, this flower was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, protect from evil eyes and ensure a safe passage. Since then, it’s popularity has crossed different cultures and regions, and even today it is part of many wedding decorations in Europe. Similarly, it is often used in hand bouquets to express appreciation and is given to loved ones on special occasions.

Recently, it has become a popular choice in gardens, both as an ornamental plant and as a medicinal one. Gooseneck loosestrife is believed to be anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, and is famed for its ability to promote wound healing.

Flower Varieties and their Defining Characteristics

There are several varieties of Gooseneck loosestrife that differ in such characteristics as the flower color and size. The most common varieties of this flower are:

Lysimachia clethroides ‘Golden Alexander’ – This variety produces bright yellow flowers with a raspberry colored calyx.
Lysimachia clethroides ‘Faro Form’ – This variety produces intense reddish-orange flowers.
Lysimachia clethroides ‘Hinomayo’ – This variety produces small, white flowers.

These varieties of Gooseneck loosestrife are characterized by their tall, arching flower spikes that reach up to 20 inches (50cm) tall. They have blackish-green foliage of bright green tips and pale yellow flowers.

How to Pot and Repot Gooseneck Loosestrife

Gooseneck loosestrife is best potted in early spring, when it is still in its dormant stage. The plant should then be kept in the same size pot throughout its growing period, as it will not grow to a very large size. It can be repotted every other year in the same size container, or repotted into a larger container if you wish.

Before potting, make sure to cover the drainage hole of the pot with either clay or synthetic drainage material, such as gravel or hydroton. This will help to ensure that the pot is not over-saturated with water.

When repotting, make sure to choose a pot with a bigger diameter than the previous pot and use a potting mix that is especially created for planting perennials. Ensure that the soil is moist but not too saturated.

How to Prune Gooseneck Loosestrife

Pruning Gooseneck loosestrife is an easy, but important, task. It should be done as soon as the plant has finished flowering and is no longer producing flowers. Pruning in the autumn or early winter is often better, as the plant will have the opportunity to grow new shoots in the warmer weather.

To prune the plant, use pruning shears to trim back the stems and flowers. Be sure to only prune back one third of the stems at any one time, as this will encourage new flowers to grow and will stop the plant from becoming congested and unattractive.

Once the plant has been pruned, it is important to remove any dead or dying leaves and stems from the base of the plant, as this will help ensure that the plant is healthy and has a good chance of reblooming in the spring.

How to Propagate Gooseneck Loosestrife

Gooseneck Loosestrife can easily be propagated from both seed and from division. The plant is self seeding and will drop seeds in the fall once they have died off, however direct sowing is often the best way to propagate this plant as it will guarantee germination.

To sow the seeds, prepare some well-draining soil and scatter the seeds in it. To ensure good seed contact with the soil, cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and cover the pot with a sheet of plastic or a glass plate. The seedlings will emerge within a few weeks.

Division is an easy way to propagate Gooseneck Loosestrife, with the plant being divided into smaller sections in the spring or fall time. Remove the plant from its pot, dividing it into sections by gently ripping it apart. Each division must have a healthy root system and be big enough to survive independently. Replant the divisions into appropriate sized pots and water well.

Common Pests and Diseases

Gooseneck loosestrife is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, but proper care can help to prevent them. The most common pests are aphids, mites, and thrips, while the most common diseases are root rot, powdery mildew and fungal leaf spots.

To prevent the infestation of pests like aphids, mites and thrips, make sure to regularly inspect your Gooseneck loosestrife for any signs of damage. If you find any, spray with an insecticidal soap or suitable insecticide. To prevent fungal diseases, water the soil rather than the foliage and make sure the plant is not overwatered.

Three Frequently Asked Questions about Gooseneck Loosestrife

Q. How long does it take for Gooseneck loosestrife to flower after planting?
A. Gooseneck loosestrife will usually flower within the first season of planting, usually in late summer.
Q. Does Gooseneck loosestrife need to be deadheaded?
A. Deadheading is not essential for Gooseneck loosestrife, but it will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and can help to prolong its flowering period.
Q. Can Gooseneck loosestrife tolerate full sun?
A. No, Gooseneck loosestrife prefers part shade, as it cannot tolerate the direct sunlight.

Table Fact Sheet

Name	Lysimachia clethroides
Family	Primulaceae
Plant Type	Perennial
Mature Size	Up to 20in (50cm) tall
Sun Exposure	Partial shade
Soil Type	Moist and well drained
Soil pH	Alkaline or acidic
Bloom Time	Late Spring to Early Summer
Flower Color	Varies
Hardiness Zones	5-9
Native Area	China and Japan