Purple Loosestrife is native to Europe and Asia. It was imported to North America in the early 1800s as an ornamental plant. It can be identified by its showy upright clusters of purple flowers. It is sometimes confused with Douglas Spirea. Purple Loosestrife spreads aggressively along streams, harming native plant and animal habitat and increasing erosion. Please report Purple Loosestrife in the wild to the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline. If located within Washington County, a specially trained crew will treat the infestation for free.
