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Description
Epilobium Luteum, or the Yellow Willowherb, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is native to Europe and can be found growing in wet meadows, ditches, and riverbanks. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a yellowish-green stem that is covered in fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, and the flowers are small and yellow, blooming from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Epilobium |
Appearance
The Yellow Willowherb is a tall, slender plant with a yellowish-green stem that is covered in fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with a smooth surface and slightly serrated edges. The flowers are small and yellow, with four petals that are arranged in a cross shape. The plant blooms from July to September, and the flowers are followed by small, cylindrical seed pods that split open when mature, releasing the seeds.
Care Guide
The Yellow Willowherb is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun, but can also grow in partly shaded areas. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Willowherb is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by rust, a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled by spraying with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Yellow Willowherb is native to Europe and can be found growing in wet meadows, ditches, and riverbanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate a range of growing conditions. The plant is often used in wetland restoration projects and can help prevent soil erosion along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Yellow Willowherb a native plant?
A: Yes, it is native to Europe.
Q: What is the best soil type for the Yellow Willowherb?
A: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: What pests can affect the Yellow Willowherb?
A: The plant can be affected by aphids.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Yellow Willowherb?
A: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Related Plants
- Epilobium Angustifolium
- Epilobium Canum
- Epilobium Ciliatum
- Epilobium Coloratum
- Epilobium Hirsutum
References
- “Epilobium Luteum.” Plants For A Future, 2021, https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Epilobium+luteum. Accessed 28 July 2021.
- “Yellow Willowherb – Epilobium Luteum.” Woodland Trust, 2021, https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/wild-flowers/yellow-willowherb/. Accessed 28 July 2021.
- “Epilobium Luteum.” The Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/325032/Epilobium-luteum/Details. Accessed 28 July 2021.
