Decodon

This wetland plant often forms patches on the edge of ponds and sluggish streams, sometimes growing across the surface of the water in floating mats. Showy, deep-pink flowers appear on the arching, willow-like branches in July and August. At home in wet situations, but also does well and makes an interesting specimen in ordinary, moist garden soil. Note: Water loosestrife is related to the invasive exotic purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Unlike purple loosestrife, however, water loosestrife is a native species and can ethically be cultivated.