Broad-leaved Willowherb - Epilobium montanum, click for a larger image, licensed for reuse NCSA3.0
Photos ©2007 Dr. Amadej Trnkoczy
Click any photo for a larger image
Broad-leaved Willowherb - Epilobium montanum, click for a larger image, licensed for reuse NCSA3.0

Broad–leaved Willowherb - Epilobium montanum
Family - Onagraceae

Broad–leaved Willowherb is a common and widespread perennial plant of waste and cultivated ground, building sites, pathways, roadsides and embankments which can be seen in flower from May to August.  It grows to a height of 30–70cm (12–28in.) with light green ovatelanceolate leaves in opposite alternate pairs up the stem, clasping or on very short stalks, the leaves are slightly serrate and hairless.

Multiple flowers as a many branched lax raceme are usually light purple or pink, 7–12mm (0.28–0.48in) across of four petals with notched tips and a four lobed stigma.  They mature to a tubular capsule 5–9cm (2–3.6in.) long containing seeds with fluffy plumes which are distributed by the wind enabling it to quickly colonise large areas.

FBCP do not advise or recommend that Broad–leaved Willowherb – Epilobium montanum is eaten or used as an herbal remedy.   Apparently use in traditional medicine as a tea for the treatment of the prostate, kidneys, and urinary tract.

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