Epilobium angustifolium

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Epilobium angustifolium

Also known as: Willow Herb

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer, Soil

Format: Smal

Height: 2.00 m

Width: 1.00 m

Growth Rate: Slow

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Soil Moisture:
Moist, Permeable

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Flowers, Root, Stem, Tea

Edibility:
(3)

Medicinal:
(2)

Features:
Fibers, Filling, Bee plant

Description

Leaves and the tips of young shoots of the willowherb can be eaten raw or cooked, for example in salads or as a vegetable. This plant contains a lot of vitamins A and C. Only the young leaves should be used, and they can also be dried to make sweet tea, also known as 'kaporie' tea in Russia. The young shoots can be cooked and serve as a good substitute for asparagus. The root of the willowherb can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. The dried root can be ground into powder and has a sweet taste. Flower stems of the plant are suitable for adding raw or cooked to salads when the flowers are still in bud. The pith of the stem is sweet, tender, and limited in quantity, but can be used as a flavoring in soups due to its gelatinous texture. The willowherb is known as a mild laxative, but it is advised not to consume it on an empty stomach.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/07

End of Harvest: 30/09

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Corylus avellana Hazel	Corylus avellana can provide shade and improve soil quality with its nitrogen-fixing ability. Additionally, its dense foliage helps support beneficial insects.
Rubus idaeus Raspberry	Rubus idaeus can benefit from the presence of Epilobium angustifolium, as the latter can help improve soil aeration and moisture retention, which are beneficial for raspberry growth.
Stachys affinis Chinese Artichoke, Artichoke betony	Stachys affinis can thrive in similar growing conditions as Epilobium angustifolium, benefiting from shared nutrients and complementary root structures.
Mentha aquatica Water mint	Mentha aquatica can attract pollinators and beneficial insects, enhancing the overall health of the micro-ecosystem around Epilobium angustifolium.