Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) is native to Eurasia but has spread to other regions, including parts of Africa and Australia. It is particularly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, and it is also a target for the loosestrife beetle, which feeds on its leaves. In places where it has become invasive, such as North America, purple loosestrife can grow rapidly and overwhelm native plant species. This invasion often leads to reduced biodiversity and disruption of local ecosystems.