Lysimachia clethroides, also known as Gooseneck Loosestrife, is a bold spreading perennial recognized for its distinctive curved white flower spikes that resemble a goose’s neck. Its lance shaped green foliage turns attractive shades of red and bronze in fall adding seasonal interest. Ideal for naturalizing as it thrives in moist soils and can quickly colonize open spaces in sun to part shade.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Consistent moisture preferred; tolerates periodic wet soil
Deer Resistance: Occasionally browsed but generally avoided by deer
Native Status
Native to eastern Asia, including China and Japan, Lysimachia clethroides has naturalized in parts of North America where conditions are favorable.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Produces abundant small white blooms that attract native bees including leafcutter and bumblebee species.
Butterflies
- Nectar source for butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Cabbage White in mid to late summer.
Beneficial Insects
- Visited by hoverflies and ladybugs which contribute to natural pest control throughout its colonies.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 24 - 30 in apart to accommodate spreading roots and vigorous ground coverage.
Landscape Placement:
- Effective in rain gardens, along pond edges, or in back borders where its spreading habit can be appreciated or contained.
Companion Plants
- Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail' - Red flower wands add upright contrast and bloom alongside Lysimachia.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' - Plume like flower heads and ferny foliage complement the spiky form of Lysimachia.
- Rodgersia aesculifolia - Broad architectural leaves and creamy flowers match the scale and texture of gooseneck loosestrife.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Large blue green leaves create a dramatic backdrop and thrive in similar moist conditions.
- Carex elata 'Aurea' - Chartreuse foliage adds brightness to moist garden areas and provides a low contrasting ground layer.