Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium)

Fireweed

Chamaenerion angustifolium

Chamaenerion angustifolium, commonly known as Fireweed, is a tall, herbaceous perennial that grows 3 to 7 feet tall. It features lance-shaped leaves and produces spikes of magenta to pink flowers from mid-summer to fall. This species thrives in woodland edges and clearings, along roadsides and shores, and areas disturbed by fire or logging. The young shoots and leaves are edible when cooked, and the plant has been used traditionally to make herbal teas and jellies. Fireweed is valued for its rapid growth and vibrant flowers, making it suitable for wildflower gardens, naturalistic plantings, and erosion control on disturbed sites.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	48
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	June, July, August
Bloom Color or Type	Pink, Violet
Dominance	High

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.