Purple-Loosestrife ~~~

  • Irish name: Créathach

  • Scientific name: Lythrum salicaria

Lythrum salicaria comes from Greek Lythron gore, alluding to colour of flowers. Salicaria, from salix because of its resemblance to the willow leaf. The purple-loosestrife is a common flowering wild plant that grows on river banks and damp grounds. The plant produces striking purple flowers on a long stem, from June to September. People used to eat the young leaves in moderation to treat diarrhea. In folklore purple-loosetrife was placed in four corners of the house to bring in harmony to the household.