Loosestrife is a family primarily consisting of shrubs or small trees, sometimes herbs. These plants are most recognizable by their opposite or whorled leaves and their brightly colored flowers, typically with petals that are sometimes crumpled in the bud stage. The flowers often have long, protruding stamens, which are significant for pollination processes. Adapted to a range of environments, loosestrife can be found in wetlands as well as dry areas, exhibiting versatility in habitat preference.