Epilobium hirsutum Great Willowherb

Our tallest willowherb which can be up to 2m high with softly hairy, unstalked leaves that occur mostly in opposite pairs which clasp the stem. In summer it is an attractive plant with deep rosy-pink or purplish, 4-petalled flowers which are about 2cm in diameter with a prominent, 4-lobed stigma. It is very common in marshy places, where it often occurs in the emergent communities along the banks and edges of canals and other water courses, prefering neutral or basic soil conditions. The flowers have a subtle apple-like smell which may be why in some of the country it has been known as 'codlins and cream'. It is found throughout Britain and Ireland but is scarce in much of northern Scotland. It is a common plant in marshy places in much of West Glamorgan, particularly along canals in Neath Port Talbot.

Native