Likes water, but is drought tolerant. Prefers heavy soils, but tolerates almost any soil. Needs full sun. Does not need fertilizer. Most importantly, grow in a self contained area as it will send out underground runners far and wide.
Seeds are placed in cold moist stratification for 30 days. Germination occurs at 21 C.
By our calculations*, you should look at sowing Fireweed about 30 days before your last frost date .
The very young shoots and leaves can be eaten as cooked greens.
collect seed in late summer.
These estimates for how long Fireweed takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.
Average 77 days | Min 77 days | Max 77 days (1)
Average days | Min days | Max days (0)
Average days | Min days | Max days (0)
Our when to plant Fireweed estimates are relative to your last frost date.
The name Fireweed comes from this plant’s tendency to pop up in disturbed areas such as areas where there’s been a fire. It’s a pioneer plant. Willow Herb refers to the shape of the leaves.
Angustifolium is Latin for “narrow leaves”or “a narrow snout”.1
Larval host for White lined sphinx moth.
Native Americans used the tough old stem fibers for twine and nets.
Rosebay willow herb, Great willow herb, Blackheart, Blooming sally
Chamaenerion angustifolium, Chamerion angustifolium