Epilobium angustifolium - Rosebay willowherb

Fireweed, known by its Latin name Epilobium angustifolium, is also called Saint Anthony's Laurel or Narrow-leaved Willowherb. It is the wild species from which a few cultivars with white or pink flowers are derived. It is a tall and slender perennial, adorned with clusters of medium pink flowers in summer. Hardy and low-maintenance, it still requires moist and rich soil to thrive. It attracts pollinators and provides high-quality monofloral honey. It is also used in herbal tea for its medicinal properties.

Epilobium angustifolium belongs to the Onagraceae family, and it is a hardy perennial distributed throughout the northern hemisphere. It spontaneously and quickly colonises clearings thanks to its numerous seeds that spread around. While it can be invasive, it allows you to fill a wild space in your garden. It prefers moist soils that are not waterlogged in winter, rich, and neutral to acidic. It enjoys the sun but can also tolerate partial shade which it immediately brightens up. In spring, it quickly develops tall, flexible, yet sturdy stems that easily reach a height of 1.5m. It bears long deciduous leaves. Alternately arranged, lanceolate, and with a prominent central vein, they are a beautiful vibrant green that enhances the flower colour. The flowers appear successively on the upper third of the stem, forming long slightly pyramidal clusters. Consisting of four petals, they measure a maximum of 2cm and also attract insects from July to September.

Rosebay willowherb quickly forms an elegant perennial, which makes it suitable for the middle or back of a border. In a more wild-looking space, mix it with fallow land or wildflower meadow plants. In the middle of a cottage-style border of perennials, it pairs well with tall Phlox, Honesty, Sweet Rocket or Dame's Rocket, and perennial Geraniums, surrounded here and there by green clumps of fennel and grasses.

Epilobium angustifolium can be consumed as a herbal tea made from fresh or dried leaves. It is believed to have approved properties for treating prostate and bladder-related issues, as well as a tonic for the digestive mucosa.