Codlins And Cream, Smallflower hairy willowherb
Epilobium parviflorum
Family: Onagraceae
What it is like
Epilobium parviflorum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, hoverflies. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Stream banks, marshes, fens etc, to 360 metres.
Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to N. Africa and W. Asia to India.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves - raw. Added to salads, they have an agreeable flavour.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Succeeds in most soils. Prefers a well-drained but moisture retentive soil in a sunny position or in partial shade. The flowers are attractive to bees and provide a good late source of nectar.
Propagating it: Seed - sow early spring in situ or as soon as the seed is ripe. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist, wet