Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is commonly found in wetland habitats, including marshes, fens, riverbanks, and pond margins, across the UK.

Gypsywort thrives in nutrient-rich, moist to wet soils, often favouring habitats with full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, making it adaptable to different wetland environments.

Predators of Gypsywort include herbivores such as grazing mammals and waterfowl, which may feed on its foliage. However, its bitter-tasting leaves and the presence of secondary compounds often deter extensive browsing.

As a perennial plant, Gypsywort can live for several years, forming clumps of upright stems and producing clusters of small white or pinkish flowers in summer to early autumn. It reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals.

Culturally, Gypsywort does not hold significant symbolic or traditional references in the UK. However, it is valued for its role in wetland conservation and restoration projects. It provides habitat and food for various species of insects, birds, and other wildlife, contributing to the overall biodiversity of wetland ecosystems.

An interesting fact about Gypsywort is its historical use in traditional herbal medicine, where it was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat various ailments, including respiratory and circulatory disorders.