Epilobium tetragonum aka Square Stalked Willowherb
Taxonomy
Epilobium tetragonum, also known as the square stalked willow herb, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Onagraceae family. This erect, perennial herb can grow up to 1.3 meters in height and has several stems. Its pink-purple flowers bloom from January to November. It is found in the wild and can be used locally as a food source. However, it can also be invasive in Central Europe. In Western Australia, it has become naturalized in the Perth and Peel regions. Additionally, the Square-Stemmed Willowherb is a rare houseplant that requires regular watering and direct sunlight. It should be placed less than 1 foot away from a window and grown in well-draining soil with organic fertilizer during the peak growing season.
Common names
Square Stalked Willowherb, Fireweed, Square Stemmed WillowherbHow to care for Square Stalked Willowherb
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Square Stalked Willowherb is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Square Stalked Willowherb should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Square Stalked Willowherb loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Square Stalked Willowherb prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Square Stalked Willowherb plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Region of origin
Square Stalked Willowherb’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to W. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Epilobium Genus
Epilobium Dwarf Fireweed
Epilobium coloratum Purpleleaf Willowherb
Epilobium luteum Yellow Willowherb
Epilobium billardiereanum Epilobium Billardiereanum
Epilobium melanocaulon Epilobium Melanocaulon
Epilobium glaberrimum Glaucous Willowherb
Epilobium palustre Marsh Willowherb
Epilobium parviflorum Smallflower Hairy Willowherb
