Epilobium collinum
Epilobium collinum · Onagraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant epilobium collinum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15 to -20 °C)
- Origin
- Temperate regions of Europe
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist during the growing period, especially in summer. Reduce watering in winter. Once established, it tolerates dry periods well. Avoid waterlogging, particularly in heavy soil.
Exposure and Light
Plant your willowherb in a sunny location or partial shade. It appreciates good light for generous flowering, but tolerates semi-shaded spots. Suitable for high-traffic areas and natural gardens.
Soil
Thrives in well-drained, relatively fertile soil. Tolerates poor and even rocky soils. Amend the soil with well-decomposed compost at planting to encourage establishment. Neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
Pruning and Maintenance
Cut back the clump to ground level in late winter (February-March) to rejuvenate the plant and encourage vigorous growth. Remove spent flowers to extend blooming and limit self-seeding if desired. Requires little maintenance.
Fertilizer
Not demanding, it only needs a light application of compost each spring. A balanced diluted fertilizer at the start of the season is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would favor foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and Diseases
A robust and disease-resistant plant. May be affected by powdery mildew in humid or poorly ventilated conditions. Easy to grow, it rarely suffers from common pests. An excellent choice for gardens without chemical treatments.
Did you know?
Willowherb is also known by the common name 'Saint Anthony's herb' because it quickly colonizes burnt or disturbed land. Its seeds, equipped with long silky bristles, are dispersed by wind over enormous distances, remaining visible in autumn in the form of spectacular cottony plumes. This exceptional reproductive strategy has made it a precious ally in the natural healing of devastated terrain.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.