Purpleleaf willowherb
Epilobium coloratum
Family: Onagraceae
What it is like
Epilobium coloratum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). 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, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Low ground, springy slopes etc.
Eastern N. America - Maine to Ontario, Wisconsin, Nebraska, South Carolina, Tennessee and Kansas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The plant is said to be used for making bread. The part of the plant is not specified.
Stem: this often intergrades into leaves.
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.
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: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist