Hairy willowherb - Epilobium hirsutum (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Hairy willowherb

Also known as: Great willowherb

Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) is a species of weed that is difficult to eradicate. It is not known to be toxic, but the sale of this plant or its seeds has been banned in some areas. This is because its dense, aggressive growth habits can crowd out and destroy other native beneficial plants.

Scientific classification

Species

Hairy willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Winter

Bloom Time

Winter, Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

50 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Hairy willowherb

Distribution of Hairy willowherb

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Stream banks, marshes, drier parts of fens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

It grows in shrubs, barren slopes, roadsides, and often grows in patches.

Symbolism

Magical power

Interesting Facts

Hairy willowherb is very similar to willow herb, but it has four petals. It likes to grow on wetlands near mountains and rivers and is often eaten as a wild vegetable.

Name Story

Hairy willowherb||Hairy willowweed||Codlins and cream||Great hairy willowherb||Great willowherb||Great willow weed: Many species of the genus Epilobium are commonly called "willowherb" because of their leaves similar to those in a willow tree. Hairy willowherb is covered in dense, but soft hairs, so hence its common name. Hairy willowherb is sometimes called Codlins and cream because the bright pink flowers with cream centers of Epilobium hirsutum resemble the color of a codling apple when cooked.

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Toxicity

The hairy willowherb plant is highly poisonous, especially the leaves, and can cause severe illness in both humans and pets. A case involved a child in a coma, and pets, including cats and dogs, are at risk if they ingest it. Symptoms of poisoning necessitate urgent veterinary care.

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Weed Control

Hairy willowherb is native to Eurasia and has been introduced widely as an ornamental. It is defined as invasive by at least seven US states. It spreads readily through rhizomes and its seeds spread easily in the wind. Plants grow rapidly once established. Hairy willowherb invades waterways, where it can grow densely enough to impede water flow. It can also spread to undisturbed areas and crowd out native vegetation. Measures for controlling hairy willowherb often take several years. Hand pulling can be effective for smaller infestations while herbicide and plastic mulching can be effective for larger control.

How to Control It

The best season for removing hairy willowherb plant is late spring or early summer, before the plant starts to flower and spread its seeds. Here are some methods of controlling or removing this weed:

Hand Pulling: Start by watering the soil around the hairy willowherb plant to make it softer. This makes the plant easier to pull out. Make sure to pull from the base to ensure the entire root system is removed.
Solarization: This process uses the sun's heat to kill the hairy willowherb. First, mow or cut the weeds as short as possible. Next, wet the area and cover with a clear plastic tarp. Secure the edges of the tarp with rocks or soil. Leave it for 4 to 6 weeks. This will kill the weed seeds and roots.
Mulching: Cover soil with a thick layer (at least 3 inches) of organic mulch like straw, wood chips, or compost around your plants. This blocks the sunlight and prevents hairy willowherb from growing.
Biologic control: Introduce pests that are predators or diseases to the hairy willowherb. For example, geese are known to graze on hairy willowherb and help control its spread.
Vinegar application: Mix a solution of equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray directly onto the hairy willowherb, focusing on the roots. Be careful not to spray desirable plants as vinegar can kill them too.

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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.

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Care Guide for Hairy willowherb

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Hairy willowherb prefers moist environments, thriving near streams and wetlands. It requires weekly watering to maintain consistent hydration without waterlogging. The plant's robust root system adapts to fluctuating water levels, enhancing its resilience during rainy seasons.

Propagation: Hairy willowherb is a resilient perennial with hairy stems, lanceolate leaves, and pink to purplish flowers, thriving in moist, well-draining soil in temperate climates. For effective propagation, use fresh seeds and maintain consistent moisture without over-saturation for optimal germination and root development.

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Images of Hairy willowherb

Distribution of Hairy willowherb

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Hairy willowherb

Care Guide for Hairy willowherb

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