Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Epilobium |
Appearance
The Epilobium Melanocaulon grows up to 3 feet tall with a spread of 2 feet. Its leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant’s stem is thin and black, which makes it stand out from other plants. The flowers of the plant are pink, and they bloom in clusters that can be up to 6 inches long. The plant blooms from June to September.
Care Guide
The Epilobium Melanocaulon is a low maintenance plant. It grows best in moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It is hardy in zones 3-9. The plant does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Epilobium Melanocaulon is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves wet. If the plant is affected by powdery mildew, treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Epilobium Melanocaulon is found in wetlands, meadows, and forests throughout North America. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate both sunny and shaded areas. The plant can be found growing alongside other wetland plants such as cattails, sedges, and ferns.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Epilobium Melanocaulon a good plant for a wetland restoration project?
A: Yes, the Epilobium Melanocaulon is a great plant for wetland restoration projects. It is native to North America and is well-suited to wetland environments.
Q: Can the Epilobium Melanocaulon be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Epilobium Melanocaulon can be grown in a container. However, it will need to be watered more frequently than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: Does the Epilobium Melanocaulon attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Epilobium Melanocaulon is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its pink flowers are a great source of nectar.
Q: Can the Epilobium Melanocaulon be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Epilobium Melanocaulon can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Epilobium angustifolium (Fireweed)
- Epilobium hirsutum (Great Willowherb)
- Epilobium parviflorum (Hoary Willowherb)
References
- USDA Plants Database. Epilobium melanocaulon Hook. – blackstem willowherb. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=EPME3
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Epilobium melanocaulon. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n650
- North Carolina State Extension. Willowherb, Black-stem (Epilobium melanocaulon). https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/epilobium-melanocaulon/
