Species Fireweed
Magenta flower with buds, pink pedicel and green stem.

Fireweed

Chamaenerion angustifolium

Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) is an herbaceous wildflower native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Reaching heights of up to two metres, the plant produces clusters of pink or purplish flowers at the ends of its stems. It thrives in open, sunny sites, especially disturbed areas like burnt-out forests. For this reason, it is often found in ecosystems that have experienced change or destruction and is sometimes called "the climax species" as it is typically the first vegetation to arise after a disturbance. Fireweed has been used medicinally for centuries and the plant has many edible parts including the leaves, flowers, and seeds.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Root Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) well, and then allow it to dry out in between waterings. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season when rainfall is scarce. During humid and hot weather, water more frequently – up to 2 times a week. In the winter months reduce your watering to twice a month. If you live in an arid climate, you may need to water the plant 3 times a week.

sunlight

Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) is a species of plant that thrives best in full sun. This means it will require around 8-10 hours of direct sunlight each day to flourish. The best time of day for sunlight should happen between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is at its peak and when the temperature is at its highest. This is when the sun is casting the most intense rays and the plant can make the most use of it. If Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) is planted in partial shade, it will still grow, but not as well as it would with full sun. Additionally, too much shade can lead to weaker and smaller plants with fewer flowers.

pruning

Fireweed should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Generally, the stems should be cut back to about 4 inches above the soil. This will give the plant room to produce new growth in the upcoming season and will encourage an overall healthier plant. Dead or diseased stems should be immediately removed and discarded. If the stems of the plant become too dense or overcrowded, you may choose to selectively prune by removing every other stem to improve air circulation.