Fireweed is one of the largest weeds to find its way into the garden. The flowers of this herbaceous perennial can be held up to eight feet off the ground! While it is blooming it can be stunning, especially in large drifts. Be warned, though, that it shares a trait with its relative Evening Primrose: Epilobium can spread both by seed and by roots, although fortunately it's not quite as aggressive.
To eradicate this weed you'll probably have to dig it out. It can usually be kept in check by removing the spent flower heads before they can make seed (much like Digitalis).
This giant weed is aptly named, although it can be found in many different locations and situations.
Genus: Epilobium
Species: angustifolium
Family: Onagraceae
Common Name: Fireweed
Origin: Native
All contents © Travis Saling
This page was last updated
November 18, 2013