Short-Fruited Willowherb

(Epilobium obscurum)

Short-Fruited Willowherb (Epilobium obscurum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 25" - 55"
High Temp. 64°F - 75°F
Low Temp. 27°F - 36°F

Summary

Epilobium obscurum, commonly known as Short-fruited Willowherb, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats including moist meadows, stream banks, and open woodlands across Macaronesia, Northwestern Africa, and Europe to Turkey. It typically grows to a height of 10-60 cm and has a spreading habit with lance-shaped leaves. The plant produces small, pink to purplish flowers from June to September, which are modest in appearance but can add a delicate charm to garden settings.

Short-fruited Willowherb is valued for its ability to thrive in damp conditions and can be used to stabilize soil in riparian restoration projects. It is also appreciated for its ease of maintenance and can be used in informal garden settings or naturalized areas. In cultivation, it prefers moist soils with good drainage and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. While not commonly found in nurseries, it can be a useful plant for gardeners looking to create a naturalistic or wildlife-friendly garden.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, stream banks, and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Short-fruited Willowherb, Dark Willowherb

Scientific Names: Epilobium obscurum, Chamaenerion obscurum, Chamaenerion obscurum, Chamaenerion ramosissimum, Epilobium acidulum, Epilobium ambiguum, Epilobium anagallidifolium var. diffusum, Epilobium chordorrhizum, Epilobium decumbens

GBIF Accepted Name: Epilobium obscurum