Epilobium montanum

RHS Plant Profile
broad-leaved willowherb

Other common names

helyglys llydanddail

Herbaceous Perennial

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

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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. See willowherbs for more information

Propagation

Spreads readily by windborne seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free