Epilobium montanum
broad-leaved willowherb
A herbaceous perennial to about 70cm forming rather sparse clumps of erect stems with pointed, oval, toothed, mid-green leaves topped with a few, small, pale pink flowers. These are followed by long, narrow seedpods, starting green, developing a dark red flush, then turning pale brown before splitting to release seeds with silky parachutes
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | Brown | |
| Autumn | Brown | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Epilobium can be annuals or perennials, sometimes invasive, with erect stems bearing willowy leaves and showy, 4-petalled flowers in terminal racemes
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows naturally in cultivated ground and open places, particularly in shade, and is a common garden weed
Propagation
Spreads readily by windborne seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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