Description
Lysimachia punctata 'Alexander' is a variegated form of dotted loosestrife. Its lance-shaped green leaves have broad cream margins, often tinged pink in spring. In summer it carries bright golden-yellow, cup-shaped flowers in the upper leaf joints.
'Alexander' at a glance
| Botanical name |
Lysimachia punctata 'Alexander' |
| Common name |
Variegated dotted loosestrife, garden loosestrife |
| Plant type |
Upright, spreading perennial; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
About 50 cm–1 m tall, up to 60 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Bright golden yellow cups, about 2.5 cm across, along the stems in summer |
| Position |
Full sun or part shade |
| Soil |
Moist soil that does not dry out in summer |
| Pond depth |
None – keep the crown above the water |
| Hardiness |
RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C) |
| Native to |
Garden form of a central and eastern European plant (not UK native) |
Is 'Alexander' a pond plant?
It is a bog and moist-border plant, not a water plant. Plant it in moist soil beside a pond or stream, with the crown above the water.
Does it spread?
Yes. The RHS says it can spread vigorously in moist soil and become a nuisance. The species has escaped into the wild in the UK from dumped garden waste. It is not legally restricted, but divide clumps to keep it in check and never dump unwanted pieces in the countryside.
How to plant and care for it
Plant from spring to late summer in soil that stays moist. Watch for slugs and snails.
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.
