Description
Lycopus europaeus, known as gypsywort, is a UK native wetland plant of the mint family. Its square, hairy stems carry deeply toothed to lobed leaves, and from June to September dense whorls of tiny white flowers, spotted purple, form where the upper leaves join the stem.
Gypsywort at a glance
| Botanical name |
Lycopus europaeus |
| Common name |
Gypsywort |
| Plant type |
Upright, spreading perennial with square stems; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
Up to about 80 cm tall; spreads by rhizomes |
| Flowers |
Tiny, white, spotted purple, in dense whorls up the stems, June to September |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Moist to wet soil of any type and pH |
| Pond depth |
Wet soil or up to 15 cm of water (wetland-plants.co.uk) |
| Hardiness |
RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C) |
| Native to |
UK and Ireland (native wild flower) |
Is gypsywort good for wildlife?
Yes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, and the RHS recommends it for wildlife gardens and wildflower meadows.
Does gypsywort spread?
Yes, by underground stems, so give it room at the pond edge. As a native it is not restricted. Our plants are nursery-grown; please never dig up wild plants.
Is it safe?
Do not eat it or use it as a herbal remedy. It acts on the thyroid, and herbal sources advise against it in pregnancy. The RHS describes it as generally free of pests and diseases.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
