Chamaenerion angustifolium
rosebay willowherb
A rhizomatous, strongly-spreading and potentially invasive perennial forming dense colonies. Long, narrow, willow-like leaves are 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 [3]
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–drainedpH
Colour & 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 the UK
- 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
Propagation
Will propagate itself by wind borne seed or by underground rhizomes
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
None required
Pests
Generally trouble free
Diseases
Generally trouble-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.