Overview

Epilobium luteum is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Epilobium, part of the Onagraceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Epilobium luteum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens.

About

Epilobium luteum, known as yellow-flowered Californian willowherb, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Onagraceae family. Like other Epilobium species, it has upright stems with slender, semi-evergreen leaves and produces prominent yellow flowers with four petals arranged in terminal racemes during spring and summer. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade, tolerating a range of soil types and pH levels, and can grow in both exposed and sheltered locations. It is hardy to UK zone H7 and is suitable for wildflower meadows and wildlife gardens, spreading readily by windborne seed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Epilobium

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Clay, Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained or Poorly-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Epilobium luteum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Herbaceous Perennial

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Semi evergreen

Suggested uses

Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Epilobium luteum

Propagation

Spreads readily by windborne seed

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to rust diseases and powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions