Botanical name:

Epilobium glabellum 

Common name(s):

Willowherb

About:

A variable species that can be found in a wide habitat range, extending from East Cape in the north and continuing southward, but it is considered rare in the drier areas of the South Island. This plant typically grows to an approximate height of about 40 cm tall and presents a slightly bushy appearance, characterised by its stems adorned with red-tinged, glossy oval leaves. The flowers of this species appear for long-lasting periods, blooming from spring all the way through to summer, and they exhibit a lovely range of colors that include both white and pink. This attractive plant can be successfully grown in a rock garden, provided it is planted in moist soil that supports its growth.

Natural habitat: 

Lowland to high-alpine regions in a variety of different habitats.

Growing environment:

Frost, Shade, Wetland, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s East Cape in the North Island southward, although rare in the drier areas of the South Island

Height: 40cm

Flowering:  

June - September with a pink to white coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

July - October

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed and rooted pieces. Does best in a rockery. 

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though