Epilobium glabellum G. Forst.

RHS Plant Profile
smooth-leaved willowherb G. Forst.
Herbaceous Perennial

A mat-forming semi-evergreen perennial, with reddish stems, to a height of up to 30cm. The leaves are long, shiny, oval-shaped and green, occasionally tinted bronze. The flowers, which appear in summer, are usually white, upturned cups, but can also be pink, or pale yellow

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalk

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Sand Loam Clay Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral or Alkaline or Acid

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Onagraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming, Matforming
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
Plant Range
New Zealand

How to Grow

Cultivation

Ideal for a cool moist shady position. Makes good groundcover

Propagation

Propagate by division in autumn or spring, by seed as soon as ripe or in spring, or by cuttings from sideshoots in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Garden edging
  • Ground cover

Pruning

No pruning required unless untidy looking

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases and powdery mildews