Great willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Great willowherb on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Onagraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Great willowherb
Epilobium hirsutum, commonly known as hairy willowherb, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Onagraceae family, capable of reaching up to 1.5 meters in height. It is characterized by its densely hairy stems and leaves, and its showy purple-pink flowers that appear in summer, forming terminal clusters. It is ideal for wild gardens, pond edges, or damp areas, providing a natural touch and attracting pollinators.
Native range
Europe and Western Asia, parts of Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade locations and thrives in moist, even waterlogged soils, making it perfect for watersides. Watering should be frequent and abundant, especially during dry periods, to keep the substrate consistently moist. Use a substrate rich in organic matter and well-drained, although it tolerates a wide range of soils. A common mistake is planting it in dry or insufficiently moist soils, where its growth will be severely limited.
How to save a dying Great willowherb
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, soft stems, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture, repot if waterlogged or extremely dry. Prune affected parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or prolonged drought.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's a resilient plant.