Purple loosestrife, identified by its attractive crown of magenta flowers,
was introduced from Europe in the early twentieth century. It is an
aggressive plant capable of replacing native wetland plant communities
within a few years. Much like Phragmites and reed canary grass, purple
loosestrife degrades bog turtle habitats by reducing water levels in
wetlands, solidifying soft soils and creating a closed canopy. While
attractive to bees, butterflies and seed-eating birds, purple loosestrife
is detrimental to most amphibians, reptiles and other wildlife.
