About
A herbaceous perennial to about 70cm forming rather sparse clumps of erect stems with pointed, oval, toothed, mid-green leaves topped with a few, small, pale pink flowers. These are followed by long, narrow seedpods, starting green, developing a dark red flush, then turning pale brown before splitting to release seeds with silky parachutes.
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
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrows naturally in cultivated ground and open places, particularly in shade. See willowherbs for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationSpreads readily by windborne seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free