Purple loosestrife has been present on the shores of Lake Minnetonka and in the nearby wetlands for over 50 years.  In many areas, it has created dense populations that have replaced cattails and other native plant species. 

Initially used as a garden plant, this species is now on the state noxious weed list because it is invasive and harmful to wildlife habitat.

 і LMCD Website, "Lake Minnetonka Conservation District" Purple Loosestrife.

Is Purple Loosestrife in Your Garden & What Does it Look Like?

Purple loosestrife is designated as a noxious weed in Minnesota.  It is illegal to plant purple loosestrife and its cultivars.  However, it is still legally available for sale in some other states.  DO NOT BUY IT!  Also, purple loosestrife seeds are present in some wildflower seed mixes - check the label before you buy any seed packages.

Purple loosestrife is a perennial herb 3-7 feet tall with a dense bushy growth of 1-50 stem.  The stems, which range from green to purple die back each year.  Showy flowers vary from purple to magenta, possess 5-6 petals aggregated into numerous long spikes, and bloom from July to September.  Leaves are opposite, nearly linear, and attached to four-sided stems without stalks.  It has a large, woody taproot with fibrous rhizomes that form a dense mat.

Learn to identify purple loosestrife, because it is commonly mistaken for other plant varieties.  Check the link below.

і DNR Website, "Department of Natural Resources" Purple Loosestrife, Is Purple Loosestrife in Your Garden. 
і Wisconsin DNR Website, "Department of Natural Resources" Purple Loosestrife, Description. 

What You Can do to Control Purple Loosestrife

Controlling the spread of purple loosestrife is crucial to protecting vital fish, wildlife and native plant habitat!  Purple loosestrife can easily spread if improper control methods are used.  The following simple guidelines will ensure that your efforts to control the spread of purple loosestrife are effective.

Things To Remember
 

1. The best time to control purple loosestrife is in late June, July and early August, when it is in flower, plants are easily recognized, and before it goes to seed.
2. Be aware your clothes and equipment may transport the small seeds into new areas.  Thoroughly brush off your clothes and equipment before leaving the site.
3. Keep site disturbance to a minimum.  Wetlands provide habitat for many other plants and animals.

Ways To Remove Purple Loosestrife
 

1. Manually removing plant; digging, hand-pulling or cutting. (Proper disposal is important)
2. Chemical Control (DNR permit is required)
3. Biological Control (Contact DNR to obtain beetles)

* For detailed instructions on how to remove purple loosestrife, check out the links below:

і DNR Website, "Department of Natural Resources" What you can do to Control Purple Loosestrife. 

Alternative Plantings for Purple Loosestrife