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Description
Epilobium Hirtigerum, also known as hairy willowherb or hairy fireweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to North America. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a clumping growth habit. The leaves of this plant are lance-shaped and can reach up to 4 inches long. The flowers are pink or purple and bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The plant is hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Epilobium |
Appearance
Epilobium Hirtigerum has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden or landscape. Its lance-shaped leaves are covered in fine hairs, which gives them a fuzzy texture. The stem is also covered in hairs and can range from green to reddish-brown in color. The flowers are pink or purple and have four petals that are arranged in a cross shape. They bloom in clusters at the top of the stem and are a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Epilobium Hirtigerum is an easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to leggy growth.- Soil: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soil. Amend heavy soil with organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Epilobium Hirtigerum is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epilobium Hirtigerum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves. Use slug bait to control them.
Habitat
Epilobium Hirtigerum is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. It prefers moist soil conditions but can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epilobium Hirtigerum deer-resistant?A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.Q: Can I grow Epilobium Hirtigerum in a container?A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow.Q: Can I divide Epilobium Hirtigerum?A: Yes, this plant can be divided in spring or fall.Q: Can Epilobium Hirtigerum be grown from seed?A: Yes, this plant can be grown from seed.
Related Plants
– Epilobium angustifolium (Fireweed)- Epilobium ciliatum (Fringed Willowherb)- Epilobium canum (California Fuchsia)- Epilobium parviflorum (Knotweed Willowherb)- Epilobium tetragonum (Square-stemmed Willowherb)
References
– “Epilobium hirtigerum,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 26, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b805.- “Epilobium hirtigerum,” Plant Database, accessed August 26, 2021, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ephi.- “Hairy Willowherb (Epilobium hirtigerum),” Ontario Wildflowers, accessed August 26, 2021, https://www.ontariowildflowers.com/main/species.php?id=235.
