Epilobium roseum
pale willowherb
An native perennial to about 75cm tall. Often overwintering as a rosette of leaves, it has upright stems with pairs of toothed leaves, and small, white or very pale pink flowers with long, tubular ovaries. These develop into pods that burst open to release seeds dispersed with the help of 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–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- 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
Naturally found in damp, shady places, but can stray into gardens. Worth tolerating to increase biodiversity and as a food plant for caterpillars of elephant hawkmoth, and other moth species. See willowherbs for more information
Propagation
Spreads readily by windborne seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required; deadheading will reduce self seeding
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to rust diseases and powdery mildews
Get involved
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