Purple Loosestrife
           Acceptable plant: Purple loosestrife is a beautiful purple flower that is often used in flower gardens and commercial landscaping. It is also grown in nurseries for flower arrangements.

          Undesired weed: As a weed, purple loosestrife invades wetlands and riparian areas. It forms thick stands that can choke out other plants that are required by native wildlife for food and shelter. These thick stands can also close off water channels and open waterways.