Epilobium montanum
broad-leaved willowherb
Overview
Epilobium montanum, broad-leaved willowherb, is an erect perennial in the evening-primrose family (Onagraceae), growing 8-32 inches (20-80 cm) tall on slender, often reddish stems. The oval to lance-shaped leaves are toothed and short-stalked, set in opposite pairs low on the stem and becoming alternate higher up. From early to late summer it bears small, pale pink to rose flowers about 0.3-0.4 inch (6-9 mm) across, each with four notched petals and a four-lobed, cross-shaped stigma. After flowering, long narrow seed capsules split to release many tiny seeds carried on tufts of white hairs, scattering widely on the wind. It grows in woodland, hedge banks, gardens, walls, and waste ground across a wide range of soils, in sun or shade. The plant self-seeds prolifically and appears readily in cultivated beds, paths, and pots, where it is treated as a weed. It dies back to a basal rosette and short rhizome in winter, regrowing in spring. Heavy, waterlogged soils and dense competition limit its size, though it persists in most conditions.
Native Range
Native throughout Europe and into western and central Asia, growing in woodland, scrub, hedge banks, rocky places, and disturbed ground. It is widespread from lowland gardens to upland slopes and has naturalized in North America and other temperate regions.Suggested Uses
Grown in wild and woodland gardens and conservation areas where its summer flowers feed pollinating insects and its seeds attract birds. Used in naturalistic and rewilded plantings that can absorb its free self-seeding. Suited to informal, low-maintenance ground where spread is not a concern.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8" - 2'8"
Width/Spread8" - 1'4"
Bloom Information
Small pink flowers open from June into September, a few at a time at the tops of the stems and branches. Each flower lasts only briefly before forming a long seed capsule. Bees and hoverflies visit for nectar and pollen, though the flowers also self-pollinate freely.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
pale pink to roseFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-7 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight