Hairy Willowherb
epilobium hirsutum
Also known as: ["Great Willowherb","Firesweeper"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial with pinkish-purple flowers and hairy stems, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Epilobium |
| Botanical Name: | Epilobium hirsutum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed near water sources or in damp meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil; loamy or peat-based mix works well.
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 the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place in partial shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; provide shade during heatwaves.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; amend with organic matter annually; check drainage regularly.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; provide shade in summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize in early morning or evening; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
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 humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a propagator or plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to healthy buds or nodes.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or diseased growth; make clean cuts; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
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; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or cloches; move potted plants indoors in freezing conditions; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEpilobium hirsutum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEpilobium hirsutum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEpilobium hirsutum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with its consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epilobium hirsutum invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in disturbed areas and wetlands.
Q: Does it attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How tall does it grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–2 meters in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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