Purple-leaf Willowherb (Epilobium coloratum)

Purple-leaf Willowherb

Epilobium coloratum

Purple-leaf Willowherb is a slender, upright perennial that grows 12 to 40 inches tall, with reddish-tinged stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Found in wet meadows, marshes, and along streambanks, it thrives in moist soils with good drainage. This plant provides food and habitat for pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, and contributes to wetland restoration projects. Its ability to establish quickly makes it a useful addition to rain gardens, wetland buffers, and moist garden borders.

Characteristics

Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat
Moisture	Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	36
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	15
Bloom month(s)	July, August, September, October
Bloom Color or Type	White, Pink
Dominance	Medium

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.