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Description
Epilobium Palustre, commonly known as Marsh Willowherb, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Onagraceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it can also be found in North America. The plant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and has slender, erect stems with hairy leaves. The flowers are pink or purple and bloom from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Epilobium |
Appearance
Epilobium Palustre has slender, erect stems that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. The leaves are hairy and can be up to 10 cm long. The flowers are pink or purple, and they bloom from July to September. The plant produces small, cylindrical seed capsules that split open to release numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Epilobium Palustre prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve plant growth. Epilobium Palustre is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epilobium Palustre is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
Habitat
Epilobium Palustre is native to wetlands, marshes, and damp meadows in Europe and Asia. It can also be found in North America, where it has been introduced. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is often used in wetland restoration projects because of its ability to tolerate periodic flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Epilobium Palustre be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Epilobium Palustre can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Epilobium Palustre attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Epilobium Palustre are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Epilobium Palustre a good plant for wetland restoration?
A: Yes, Epilobium Palustre is often used in wetland restoration projects because of its ability to tolerate periodic flooding.
Q: How often should Epilobium Palustre be watered?
A: Epilobium Palustre should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Epilobium Angustifolium (Fireweed)
- Epilobium Hirsutum (Great Hairy Willowherb)
- Epilobium Canum (Hummingbird Trumpet)
- Epilobium Californicum (California Fuchsia)
References
- “Epilobium Palustre.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c793.
- “Epilobium Palustre – Plant Finder.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/64132/.
- “Epilobium Palustre (Marsh Willowherb) – Garden.org.” National Gardening Association. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://garden.org/plants/view/227305/Epilobium-Palustre/.
