Willowherb
epilobium alsinifolium
Also known as: ["Fireweed","Rosebay Willowherb"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant in the Onagraceae family, known for its slender stems and pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Epilobium |
| Botanical Name: | Epilobium alsinifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or open woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within a few months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose 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; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage or dieback, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage; move indoors or to a sheltered location in cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEpilobium alsinifolium is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEpilobium alsinifolium is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEpilobium alsinifolium is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epilobium alsinifolium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require high maintenance?
A: No, it has low maintenance needs.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and fungal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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