Epilobium billardierianum ssp. cinereum
Variable Willow-herb
Erect, branched, hairy perennial herb.
Additional information
- FamilyOnagraceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Sizeto 0.4 m x 0.2-0.5 m
- Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
- LeavesLeaves only paired near base, narrow to narrowly ovate to 4 cm x 2-7 mm, 1-6 teeth widely spaced along margins.
- Flower colourPurplish-pink
- Flowering timeNovember to March
- FlowersSingle small erect flowers, held erect in terminal leaf axils. Ring of long hairs inside the base of the floral tube. Stalk lengthens to 20 mm in fruit. Capsules 3-7.5 cm long, splitting to release many seeds with tuft of hairs.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingFood plant for caterpillars
- Frog habitatYes
- Growing conditionsVery extensive in moist soils in lowland areas but also on mountains in drier rocky sites. Full sun, semi shade.
- Garden useA dainty little herb which is pretty in rockeries and moist spots, but spreads prolifically.
- Commercially availableRarely
- Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
- Related speciesEpilobium billardierianum ssp. billardierianum differs in having few branches, oval leaves to 20 mm wide which are densely serrated with 16-40 teeth per side, and white flowers. It grows in cool damp sites.
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1, 2, 5 Marilyn Bull ©; 3 PeterKinchington ©; 4 John Knight ©
Plant Communities