Torrey’s Willowherb

(Epilobium torreyi)

Torrey’s Willowherb (Epilobium torreyi)

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant
Epilobium torreyi image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 13" - 47"
High Temp. 79°F - 96°F
Low Temp. 20°F - 37°F

Summary

Epilobium torreyi, commonly known as Torrey’s willowherb, is a perennial herb that is native to riparian zones, wet meadows, and moist mountain slopes in western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 meters) with a narrow, upright form. The leaves are lance-shaped, and the plant produces a glandular inflorescence with tiny, yet showy, white or pink flowers during the summer months. Following flowering, it develops a fruit capsule up to a centimeter long.

Torrey’s willowherb is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used for habitat restoration and erosion control in its native range. It is also appreciated by gardeners for its delicate flowers and its attractiveness to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This species prefers consistently moist soil, partial to full sun exposure, and can tolerate a range of soil types provided they are well-draining. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread rapidly and may require management to prevent unwanted colonization of garden spaces.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

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

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to riparian zones, wet meadows, and moist mountain slopes in western North America

Other Names

Common Names: Narrowleaf Willowweed, Torrey’s Evening Primrose, Brook Spike-Primrose, Brook Willowherb

Scientific Names: Epilobium torreyi, Boisduvalia parviflora, Boisduvalia stricta, Boisduvalia torreyi, Gayophytum strictum, Oenothera densiflora var. tenella, Oenothera torreyi

GBIF Accepted Name: Epilobium torreyi