Fireweed | Chamaenerion angustifolium
This native flowering perennial spreads easily and is often found in forest clearings, along roadsides, and in low, wet places. Commonly establishes after fires, hence the name fireweed. Creates 3-6 ft tall spires of pinkish-purple blooms from June through September. A great food source for butterflies, bees, other beneficial insects, and hummingbirds.
Plant Details
| Habitats | Shallow Marsh, Upland Prairie and Savanna, Mixed Hardwood-Conifer Forest or Woodland, Oak Woodland, Bottomland Forests, Riparian Forests |
|---|---|
| Habitat Notes | Does best in moist soils but can tolerate dry ones. This species spreads easily once established |
| Phenology | Perennial; flowering June-September |
| Mature Height | 3-6 ft |
| Shade Preference | Full sun, part shade, full shade |
| Soil Tolerance | Moist, well-drained to dry soils |
| Special Uses | Supports beneficial insects and hummingbirds; erosion control. Often a species used to reclaim a disturbed site and is planted after a fire or clear cut |
