Epilobium spicatum
rosebay willowherb
A rhizomatous, strongly-spreading perennial to about 1.5m tall, forming dense colonies, with long, narrow, willow-like leaves arranged spirally up the pink-tinged stems. Striking spikes of purplish-pink flowers bloom from summer to autumn, followed by long pink-tinged seed pods; seeds are cocooned in silky plumes
Other common names
bay willowblooming willow
see moreburntweed
fireweed
French willow
French willowherb
great willowherb
herb wickopy
moose tongue
Persian willow
pigweed
purple rocket
rose bay
rose elder
wickup
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Red | Pink Purple | Green | |
| Autumn | Pink Red | Pink Purple | Green | |
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Chamaenerion can be annuals or perennials, sometimes invasive, with erect stems bearing willowy leaves and showy, 4-petalled flowers in terminal racemes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- N Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Naturally occurs on a wide range of soils in open places such as verges or waste ground; has the potential to become a nuisance so site with care
Propagation
Propagate by seed, propagate by division in spring or autumn or propagate by softwood cuttings from side shoots in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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