Epilobium hirsutum
great willowherb
A very strong-growing herbaceous perennial, spread by rhizomes making dense mats of roots. Stems up to 2m in height are clothed in dark green, hairy, narrow lance-shaped leaves. Mid-pink flowers are borne in summer and are particularly attractive to hoverfiles and other pollinators
Other common names
apple piecherry pie
see morecodlins and cream
custard cups
fiddle grass
gooseberry pie
great hairy willowherb
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, Alkaline, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Native to the UK
- 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
Ideal for damp wild areas such as streamsides or marshy ground where the roots can spread freely. Excellent plant for attracting pollinating species. Will also grow in well-drained soil. Needs full sun to grow best
Propagation
Propagate by division in autumn or spring, by seed as soon as ripe or in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Prairie planting
Pruning
Cut back at the end of the year, when foliage dies back
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to rust diseases and powdery mildews
Get involved
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