Chamaenerion angustifolium (Fireweed)

Stunning in bloom, Chamaenerion angustifolium (Fireweed) is a strongly-spreading, rhizomatous perennial wildflower boasting striking spikes of up to 50 or more saucer-shaped, purplish-pink flowers from summer to fall. They sit atop upright pink-tinged stems clad with long, narrow, willow-like leaves. Attracting lots of pollinators, each flower is perched at the end of a long capsule bearing numerous seeds adorned with a tuft of silky plumes. Acting as fluffy parachutes, they can travel away from the parent plant and form dense colonies. A single plant can produce 80,000 seeds! Fireweed can quickly take over a garden if left unattended. Perfect for prairies, meadows and naturalized areas.

• Grows up to 2-5 ft. tall (60-150 cm) and 1-3 ft. wide (30-90 cm). This plant spreads by both rhizomes and self-seeding.
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in organically rich, well-drained soils with regular moisture. Appreciates some part shade in hot summer climates.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Will propagate itself by wind borne seed or by underground rhizomes. Promptly remove spent flower stems to encourage additional bloom and to prevent unwanted self-seeding.
• Native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere