Species Wandering Fireweed
Magenta flowers with buds, lime-green stem and green leaves.

Wandering Fireweed

Chamaenerion angustifolium subsp. circumvagum

Wandering Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium subsp. circumvagum) is a beautiful, bee- and butterfly-friendly perennial flower native to temperate climates. It has slender stems that may reach up to one meter in height, bearing alternately arranged, lance-shaped leaves. Clusters of bright pink to purple flowers develop near the tips of the stems during late summer. When the flowers fade, they leave behind delicate clusters of seedpods, each containing many tiny seeds — ideal for dispersal by air currents and wildlife. A hardy variety, it can tolerate drought and prefers full sun to light shade. It is often found in meadows and disturbed areas, making it a perfect addition to a garden looking for a wildflower effect.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Wandering Fireweed prefers moist soils and should be watered regularly. During the warmer months, it should be watered every other day, pouring enough water to moisten the soil completely. During the cooler months, it should be watered less frequently, about once or twice a week. Make sure to avoid overwatering, as this could lead to rot and disease. If the weather is especially dry, it may need to be watered more frequently. It is important to ensure that the soil is draining well at the same time.

sunlight

Wandering Fireweed needs full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It will do best in a sunny location and will flower more profusely with more sun. In areas with hotter summers, it is beneficial to provide some afternoon shade to the plant. In general, it should be planted in an area that receives 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

pruning

The best time for pruning Wandering Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium subsp. circumvagum) is in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. In terms of how much to prune, it should generally be kept in check. Removing any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that are rubbing against each other, or growing in an unsightly manner. You may also need to prune back overly long or straggly stems. Pruning should be done more often in early spring, while in late summer and fall it does not require as much.