| Rosebay Willowherb Chamaenerion angustifolium |
| Rosebay Willowherb: Striking, Spirited, and Sometimes Unruly Rosebay Willowherb (often just called Willowherb in the UK and Fireweed elsewhere) is a perennial wildflower with striking pink blooms that bring a splash of colour to meadows, woodlands, roadsides, and disturbed ground. While often dismissed as a weed, its tall spires of delicate flowers give it a quiet beauty that many gardeners appreciate—especially in wildlife-friendly or naturalistic planting schemes. Common throughout Kent, it’s a familiar sight in summer, thriving in wild spaces and spreading easily. Its rapid growth and colonising habit earn it a reputation for being invasive—but it’s “pretty in pink,” as I like to say when curious passersby ask about it. For those looking to introduce it intentionally into their gardens, seeds are available from specialist suppliers—including the less common white-flowered variety, Alba. That said, the native pink variety does need to be managed carefully. Without regular attention, it can quickly take over, crowding out other plants and establishing itself with determined roots and prolific seed dispersal. Each plant can release up to 75,000 seeds, which are easily carried by the wind. Despite its persistence, it’s not difficult to remove. Uprooting it by hand (especially after rain) or carefully forking around the roots are effective methods. Repeated cutting during the growing season can also discourage regrowth, as the plant doesn’t tolerate persistent disturbance. Rosebay Willowherb typically flowers from June to September and can grow up to five feet tall, with a spread of three to five feet. It’s a valuable nectar source for moths, butterflies, honeybees, and bumblebees, making it a friend to pollinators even if it’s a bit too enthusiastic in its growth. For those with space to spare—or creating a wilder, more natural garden—it can be a beautiful addition. Just keep an eye on it! |
Earthly Comforts 
I love the pretty pink color, Rory. Wow, 5 feet tall is amazing!
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Oh yes very much so, tall indeed Eugenia 🙂
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