Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus)

Gypsywort

Also known as: European bugleweed, Bugleweed

Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus) is native to Europe. Its name comes from gypsies, who once used it to dye their clothes and skin. Gypsywort thrives in natural water habitats, such as lakes, rivers, and marshes.

Scientific classification

Species

Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

20 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

White, Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Gypsywort

Distribution of Gypsywort

Distribution Map

Gypsywort is primarily native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has also been introduced to regions in other continents, notably in the temperate zones of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Although not native there, gypsywort has established itself particularly in parts of North and South America, as well as in New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rivers, streams, ditches, marshes, fens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Gypsywort is not poisonous; however, caution is advised for people with thyroid disease. Studies suggest potential medicinal use for thyroid disorders, but in rare cases, gypsywort and other Lycopus plants may cause thyroid gland enlargement. Discontinuation may worsen symptoms.

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Weed Control

Gypsywort is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced throughout most of the world. It can become weedy in disturbed habitats as it is an early successional species and has been recorded as an agricultural weed. It thrives in a variety of moist environments, including along streams, lakes, ditches, and beaches. Once established, it can spread laterally through rhizomes, allowing it to potentially form dense stands, edging out native species. It is also toxic when ingested. The entire plant must be removed if control of gypsywort is desired, due to its ability to resprout from root remnants.

How to Control It

The removal of gypsywort is most effective during the late spring or early summer period before the plant has a chance to seed. This timing is crucial because once the weed has distributed its seed, control becomes significantly more difficult. Now, let's dive into the different ways to control or remove this plant.

Hand-pulling: This is a simple and organic method ideal for smaller infestations. Put on a pair of gardening gloves, grasp the weed close to the ground and pull upwards with a firm, steady pressure. Make sure you remove the whole plant, including the roots to prevent regrowth.
Smothering: If the area infested by gypsywort is extensive, you may opt for the smothering method. Cover the entire patch with black plastic sheets or layers of old newspapers soaked in water. Weigh it down to keep it in place and leave it on for a full growing season. This will block light and moisture, causing the plants underneath to die off.
Plant competition: Plant fast-growing species that can compete with gypsywort for resources. Choose plant species that have the same sunlight and moisture requirements but can grow thickly enough to crowd out the weed.
Vinegar Spray: Using a homemade vinegar weed killer is an effective way to control gypsywort. Mix one gallon of white vinegar with one cup of table salt and one tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Put the mixture into a spray bottle and douse the gypsywort thoroughly with the solution. Do this on a sunny day to speed up the process.
Biological control: In some cases, introducing natural predators can help control the weed. Grazing animals, particularly goats, are known to feed on gypsywort effectively reducing the weed population over time.

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Images of Gypsywort

Distribution of Gypsywort

Toxicity

Weed Control

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