Marsh Willow Herb
Epilobium palustre
Family: Onagraceae
What it is like
Epilobium palustre is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Marshes, acid fens, ditches etc.
Europe, including Britain, north to Lapland and Iceland, temperate Asia, N. America and Greenland.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves and young shoots - cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a well-drained but moisture retentive soil in a sunny position. Succeeds in most soils. A calcifuge plant, it requires a lime-free soil.
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:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist