Great Willowherb
Epilobium hirsutum
Great Willowherb is a tall, perennial herbaceous plant reaching heights of 50 to 180 cm, characterized by its soft, hairy stems and large, purple-pink flowers. It thrives in nutrient-rich, damp habitats such as riverbanks, ditches, and reed beds. The species spreads via underground runners, often forming extensive colonies.
Details
Habitat function
Serves as a nesting site for birds in reed zones and as a larval habitat for various moth species.
Nutrient uptake
High capacity for nitrogen and phosphorus uptake, contributing to the purification of surface water.
Food source for
Nectar source for bees, bumblebees, and hoverflies; host plant for caterpillars of the Elephant Hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor).
Human use
Occasionally used as an ornamental plant in wildlife gardens; young leaves were formerly used as a tea substitute or wild vegetable.
Ecology
Ecological role
Pioneer species on banks, providing shelter for small animals and serving as a vital food source for specialized insects such as the Elephant Hawk-moth.
Competitor species
Other tall herbs of riparian vegetation such as Meadowsweet or Reed Canary Grass.
Ecosystem service
Bank stabilization through an extensive rhizome system and enhancement of biodiversity by providing nectar and pollen.
Threats
Destruction of wetlands, intensive riverbank engineering, and large-scale drainage measures.
Scientific profile
Profile
Reproduction
Generative via anemochorous seeds (with a tuft of hairs) and vegetative via extensive subterranean stolons.
Protection & threats
Main threats
Drainage of wetlands, intensive bank engineering, and excessive mowing of ditch edges; however, not threatened overall.