What plant is characterized by a purple/pink flower spike blooming from July to August?

The plant characterized by a purple/pink flower spike blooming from July to August is purple loosestrife. This perennial plant is known for its tall, striking flower spikes that can reach heights of up to 10 feet. The flowers themselves are typically purple or pink and bloom in a dense, showy arrangement. These blooms not only provide visual interest but also attract various pollinators like bees and butterflies during the summer months, especially in July and August when the flowers are at their peak.

In contrast, watershield is a floating aquatic plant with round leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. Duckweed consists of tiny, floating plants that produce minute flowers and do not have the distinctive purple/pink color. American lotus features large, showy white or yellow flowers and is quite different in appearance from purple loosestrife. Understanding the characteristics of these plants is essential for effective aquatic pest management, particularly in identifying and managing invasive species like purple loosestrife, which can outcompete native flora and disrupt ecosystems.