Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium)
$4.00
Out of stock
Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium / Epilobium angustifolium)
A breathtaking pioneer of the wild, Fireweed is famous for its ability to blanket open landscapes in a sea of magenta. Its tall, elegant spires and rapid growth make it a spectacular choice for larger sunny borders and restoration projects.
🌿 Key Traits
Stunning Blooms: Features towering spikes of four-petaled, pink-to-magenta flowers that bloom from the bottom up.
Architectural Height: A vigorous grower, typically reaching 3–6 feet (and sometimes taller in perfect conditions).
Willow-Like Foliage: Narrow, dark green leaves resemble those of a willow tree, providing a fine-textured backdrop.
Late Summer Show: Provides a long-lasting display of color from mid-summer through early autumn.
Photo credits: Zeynel Cebeci, Dcrjsr
☀️ Growing Conditions
Light: ☀️ Full Sun (essential for the best floral display).
Soil: 🌱 Highly adaptable; thrives in sandy, loamy, or rocky soils, particularly those that are slightly acidic.
Water: 💧 Medium; prefers consistent moisture but is surprisingly resilient once established.
Hardiness: ❄️ Zones 2–7 (exceptionally cold-hardy).
🌎 Ecological Benefits
Hummimgbird Favorite: The tubular flowers are a magnet for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.
Bee Specialist: High nectar production makes it a premier plant for honeybees and bumblebees (famed for "Fireweed Honey").
Host Plant: Serves as a vital larval host for the dramatic Bedstraw Hawk-moth.
Soil Restorer: As its name suggests, it is one of the first plants to return after a fire, helping to stabilize and enrich the soil.
📋 Quick Stats
Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Spread: 2–3 feet (spreads via underground rhizomes; give it room to grow!)
Bloom Time: July – September
Landscape Use: Best for naturalizing, meadow gardens, or large-scale screening.