INFORMATION!

PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE
Lythrum salicaria

Purple loosestrife is an emergent perennial originally from Europe that grows to 6 feet with multiple woody stalks. Leaves are typically opposite, lance-shaped, and 3 to 4 inches long. It is distinguished by its long dense spike of bright pink/purple flowers at the top of the stems. Each plant can produce millions of seeds annually.

South Carolina Law requires individuals to possess a Commercial Pesticide Applicators License in Category 5, Aquatic Pest Control, before they apply aquatic herbicides if the work is done for compensation on the property of another.  A license is also required, regardless of ownership, if the application is made to an area where public access to the treated site is expected.  Private swimming lakes, where the public would exposed to the treated waters, are the most obvious example of the latter requirement.   On all public facilities, such as golf courses, driving ranges, subdivisions, condominium/apartment complexes and mobile home parks, applicators are required to possess a Category 5 License to apply aquatic pesticides.