Lysimachia punctata 'Alexander' is a striking variegated loosestrife cultivar known for its creamy white margined leaves and upright spikes of golden yellow flowers that bloom in early to midsummer. The foliage brightens shady spots while the flowers attract pollinators and provide vertical structure in the garden. Its rhizomatous nature makes it a strong filler in rain gardens, moist borders, and naturalized areas where containment is not a concern.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained to wet soils; tolerates clay
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; thrives in moist conditions
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer once established
Native Status
Lysimachia punctata is native to Europe and western Asia. 'Alexander' is a cultivated variety known for its ornamental foliage and strong spreading habit, and is not native to North America.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees and sweat bees seeking pollen and nectar from its cup shaped yellow flowers.
Butterflies
- Supports butterflies such as Great Spangled Fritillary and Pearl Crescent which visit for nectar during midsummer.
Birds
- Provides dense cover for small ground nesting birds and sparrows in naturalized plantings.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts syrphid flies and parasitic wasps that help control aphids and other soft bodied insects.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 18 - 24 in apart to allow for spread while maintaining visual distinction in borders.
Landscape Placement:
- Effective in rain gardens, wet meadows, or as a bright filler in large perennial borders. Avoid small formal beds unless containment is used.
Companion Plants
- Lobelia siphilitica (Great Blue Lobelia) - Deep blue blooms and clumping habit balance the bright yellow of Lysimachia.
- Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail' - Long blooming red spikes add vertical contrast and thrive in similar moist conditions.
- Astilbe chinensis 'Vision in Pink' - Feathery pink plumes and bold foliage enhance the light variegation of 'Alexander'.
- Caltha palustris (Marsh Marigold) - Early golden flowers echo Lysimachia’s later blooms and suit moist soils.
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Native wetland iris with striking blue flowers and upright form to match the loosestrife.