Hairy willowherb
Epilobium hirsutum · Onagraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hairy willowherb: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 60 to 120 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Europe, Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Moist, tolerant
- Flowers
- Magenta pink to light violet
Care
Watering
Hairy willowherb loves moist soils and doesn't fear excess water. Keep the substrate constantly fresh, particularly during flowering and in summer. In its natural habitat, you'll find it near watercourses and marshy areas, which reflects its significant water requirements.
Light Exposure
Place your plant in full sun or partial shade to optimize flowering. Even in partial shade, it produces abundant flowers. Direct sunlight intensifies petal coloration and encourages compact growth.
Soil Preparation
Hairy willowherb adapts to many soil types, provided they retain moisture. Enrich the soil with organic matter (compost) to improve water retention. Loamy or clay-loam soil is ideal for this hardy and tolerant species.
Pruning and Maintenance
Cut the plant back in late winter or early spring to encourage a dense, bushy shape. You can remove faded flowers as they appear to extend the flowering period. In autumn, leave the stems in place for winter ornament if you wish.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. In naturally rich soils, a single application is usually sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and Diseases
This plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in cases of stagnant humidity or poor air circulation. Good ventilation and avoiding excess water will limit fungal problems.
Did you know?
Hairy willowherb is called 'Codlins and Cream' in English, meaning 'apples and cream,' alluding to the delicate beauty of its pink flowers. It's a pioneering colonizer plant that establishes quickly on disturbed or moist terrain, playing an important ecological role in habitat regeneration after natural disturbances.
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.