Willowherb
epilobium parviflorum
Also known as: ["Small-flowered Willowherb","Fireweed"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its slender stems and small pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Epilobium |
| Botanical Name: | Epilobium parviflorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed near water sources or in moist meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide afternoon shade in hot areas; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F or 21–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to healthy buds or lateral branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves (heat stress); stunted growth, leaf drop (cold stress).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEpilobium parviflorum is not toxic to cats. No toxic effects or physiological impacts have been documented following ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEpilobium parviflorum is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEpilobium parviflorum, commonly known as small-flowered willowherb, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epilobium parviflorum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How easy is it to care for?
A: It is easy to care for, requiring moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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