About
A fast-growing, clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 1.5m high, with narrowly ovate, finely toothed green leaves often tinged with red, and numerous small, trumpet shaped pink or white flowers.
About the genus
Epilobium can be annuals or perennials, sometimes invasive, with erect stems bearing willowy leaves and showy, 4-petalled flowers in terminal racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in moist soil in well-lit conditions, but will tolerate shade and a range of soil types. See willowherbs for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagates by seed produced prolifically through the growing season and wind-dispersed. In favourable conditions, life cycle from germination to seed production can complete in ten weeks
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free