Chamerion angustifolium

Common Names

Fireweed, Rosebay Willowherb, Great Willow Herb, Bombweed, Narrow-Leaf Fireweed, Blooming Sally, Willow Herb

Summary

Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) is a circumboreal, herbaceous perennial native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It forms tall, erect stems from widespread rhizome-like roots, with narrow willow-like leaves and spikes of pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in summer; seed capsules release numerous wind-dispersed seeds, enabling rapid colonization and dense, repeated stands after disturbance such as fire.

In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and moist, organically rich, well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soils but not waterlogged sites. It spreads aggressively by rhizomes and self-seeding; regular removal of spent flower stems helps manage seed production. Uses include wildlife habitat and nectar for pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds; it is utilized by Indigenous peoples for edible shoots, tea from leaves, and fiber from seeds for cordage and nets, and restoration contexts cite erosion control and rapid cover in disturbed areas.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-5 feet

Spread

1.5-16.5 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 2-7

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun, tolerates Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil

Soil pH

Around pH 5 (slightly acidic), with a tolerance of about 5.0–6.6.

Bloom Color

Pink

Bloom Time

Spring to Fall

Foliage Color

Green (deep green on the upper surface, paler green underneath)

Fall Foliage Color

Scarlet (red)

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Rapid

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division, Root cuttings, Rhizomes (vegetative propagation via rhizomes)

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds