Small Willowherb

epilobium palustre

Also known as: ["Grass-leaved Willowherb","Small Fireweed"]

Family: Onagraceae Genus: Epilobium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, herbaceous plant belonging to the Onagraceae family, typically found in wetland habitats.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Onagraceae
Genus: Epilobium
Botanical Name: Epilobium palustre

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: bog gardens, wet meadows, or near water bodies
  • Suitable For:
    Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
  • Soil Type: Moist, fertile, well-draining soil; suitable for peat-based mixes with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during active growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); prefers cooler conditions.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; suitable for partially shaded garden beds or containers.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Avoid harsh afternoon sun; morning sun is preferable; rotate container plants for even light exposure.

Watering

every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust based on weather and growth stage.

Soil

moist, peaty, or loamy soil with good drainage

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil is consistently moist but not soggy; amend heavy soils with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; sensitive to extreme heat.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity levels.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize in spring and summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; observe plant response to adjust frequency.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Cover with plastic to retain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagation dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth as needed.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a fine nozzle to deliver a gentle, even stream.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve fertility and moisture retention; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.

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 or cause leaf damage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.

Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move containers to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Epilobium palustre can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or may result from excessive waterlogging or root damage.

Wilting in Epilobium palustre is typically caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired water uptake by the roots.

Leaf spots on Epilobium palustre may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Epilobium palustre is often associated with prolonged waterlogging or fungal infections, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Epilobium palustre is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause severe liver damage and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy anorexia jaundice hepatic encephalopathy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Immediate veterinary attention is required if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Epilobium palustre are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Prolonged ingestion can result in chronic liver disease.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy loss of appetite jaundice abdominal swelling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Epilobium palustre contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver dysfunction and fibrosis.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Do not use for culinary or medicinal purposes without expert consultation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Epilobium palustre toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Where does Epilobium palustre typically grow?

A: It is commonly found in wetland habitats and moist soils.

Q: Does this plant require much care?

A: No, it is very easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Onagraceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 3–5 days during active
Suitable For: ["wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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