How to identify Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum)

How to identify Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum)

Hairy willowherb, also known as Great willowherb

Hairy willowherb is a robust plant that can tower up to approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height. Its distinguishing characteristics include a dense covering of fine hairs along both the stems and the foliage, giving it a distinctly soft and wooly texture. The leaves of hairy willowherb typically exhibit a uniform green color. The structure of the plant is somewhat upright, with the leaves arranged in a way that provides a lush appearance. Key identifying traits of hairy willowherb which facilitate its recognition include these soft, hairy leaves and stems.

Lifespan: Perennial, Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Hairy willowherb

Up to 6 feet tall (1.8 meters) with dense soft hairs covering stems and leaves.

Saucer-shaped rose-pink flowers, 3/4 inch across (1.9 cm), with white centers and distinctive 8 stamens.

Dehiscent seed pods, 1-3 inches long (2.54-7.62 cm), releasing wind-dispersed seeds with white hair tufts.

Opposite lanceolate leaves, 2-4 inches long (5-10 cm), densely hairy, toothed, and serrated.

Erect, highly branched stems up to 5 feet tall (150 cm) with abundant soft hairs and reddish color.

Detailed Traits of Hairy willowherb

Leaf Features

The leaves of hairy willowherb are mostly opposite, densely hairy, and toothed. They are lanceolate in shape, attaching directly to the stem without a petiole. The leaves feature deep veining and typically measure around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. Their surface is covered in fine hairs, giving a rough texture. The edges of the leaves are distinctly serrated, further aiding in identification. The vibrant green color becomes a notable feature throughout the leaf's life cycle.

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Flower Features

The flowers of hairy willowherb are saucer-shaped and rose-pink with white centers, similar to primrose blooms. Each flower measures approximately 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) across, featuring four petals with a notch at the top, four sepals, and eight stamens. They bloom at the top of the plant in leaf axils. Long seed pods split open to release numerous wind-dispersed seeds.

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Stem Features

The stems of hairy willowherb are erect and highly branched, boasting a very hairy texture that can be distinctly felt and seen. The stems are typically robust and can reach heights up to 5 feet (150 cm). They possess a light green to reddish color, providing a striking appearance. The abundant hairs are soft and can give the stem a somewhat fuzzy look, a crucial identifying characteristic. The branching occurs densely, contributing to the plant's thick, bushy structure.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of hairy willowherb is characterized by dehiscent, hairy seed pods that measure approximately 1 to 3 inches (2.54 to 7.62 cm) in length. These elongated pods open to release seeds, each equipped with a distinctive white tuft of hair. This feathery appendage is crucial for wind-dispersal, facilitating the spread of seeds away from the parent plant. The texture and shape of the pods, along with their hair tufts, are key identifying features. The overall appearance of the fruit is thin and delicate, typically seen after the flowering period.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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Hairy willowherb and Their Similar Plants

Fringed willowherb vs. Hairy willowherb: What's The Difference?

The fringed willowherb is native to North America and East Asia, but was introduced to North Europe in the 1900s and spread rapidly. It prefers humid places such as in the wetlands or by the streams and ponds, but it can also survive in a variety of habitats such as roadsides and wastelands.

Fireweed vs. Hairy willowherb: What's The Difference?

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California fuchsia vs. Hairy willowherb: What's The Difference?

California fuchsia (Epilobium canum) is a deciduous perennial that will grow to 46 cm tall. Bright scarlet flowers bloom summer and fall. California fuchsia grows best in full sun but needs constant moisture in summer. This plant goes dormant in winter.

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Key Facts About Hairy willowherb

Attributes of Hairy willowherb

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Pink

Purple

Red

Stem Color

Green

The Toxicity of Hairy willowherb

Slightly Toxic to Humans

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Scientific Classification of Hairy willowherb

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum)

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Distribution Map of Hairy willowherb

Hairy willowherb exhibits a wide natural distribution across temperate and subtropical regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is native to the major regions encompassing the Mediterranean, Central Asia, and the Eastern African Rift. Additionally, hairy willowherb has been introduced to selective Northern European territories, marking its presence beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Hairy willowherb How to Grow and Care for Hairy willowherb