Snow Willowherb

(Epilobium wallichianum)

Snow Willowherb (Epilobium wallichianum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 21" - 56"
High Temp. 61°F - 84°F
Low Temp. 11°F - 37°F

Summary

Epilobium wallichianum, commonly known as Snow Willowherb, Himalayan Willowherb, or Wallich’s Willowherb, is a perennial herb that thrives in the moist alpine and subalpine zones of the Himalayas. It is often found in a variety of habitats including moist grasslands, forest edges, and along streams and rivers. This species is adapted to high elevations and is commonly seen at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 meters. Snow Willowherb grows at a moderate rate to a typical height of 1.5-2.5 feet (0.46-0.8 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). It features lance-shaped leaves and bears pink, showy flowers with four petals that bloom in the summer and fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The plant is valued for its ornamental qualities, particularly its vibrant flowers which add color to garden borders, wildflower meadows, and naturalistic plantings. It is also used for erosion control due to its ability to establish quickly in disturbed soils. In cultivation, Snow Willowherb prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in medium to fast-draining loam or clay soils. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and other fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions. Gardeners should monitor for these issues to maintain plant health. It does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for a variety of garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist alpine and subalpine zones of the Himalayas, including moist grasslands, forest edges, and along streams and rivers at altitudes of 2,000 to 4,000 meters

Other Names

Common Names: Himalayan Willowherb, Wallich’s Willowherb

Scientific Names: Epilobium wallichianum, Epilobium duclouxii, Epilobium mairei, Epilobium microphyllum, Epilobium microphyllum, Epilobium souliei, Epilobium sykesii, Epilobium tanguticum, Epilobium tetragonum

GBIF Accepted Name: Epilobium wallichianum