Epilobium pyrricholophum

Franch. & Sav.

Onagraceae Edible: Leaves 30 iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist· cc-by-nc

Summary

Epilobium pyrricholophum is a perennial growing to 0.8 m (2 ft 6 in) tall with hermaphroditic flowers from July to October, pollinated by bees. It grows well in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage and tolerates mildly acidic to mildly alkaline pH. The plant adapts to semi-shade (light woodland) or full sun and prefers moist soil.

Description

A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. The stems are 25-80 cm tall. The leaves are crowded. They are 2-6 cm long by 1-2 cm wide. There are teeth along the edge. The flowering shoots and flowers are erect. The petals are link to purple.

Edible Uses

Young leaves and shoots are edible when cooked.

Traditional Uses

The leaves are eaten with oil and salt.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. It grows in wet places and along streams. In China it grows between 300-1,800 m above sea level. In Sichuan.

Where It Grows

Asia, China, Japan, Korea, Russia,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. A very variable plant in the wild. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a well-drained but moisture retentive soil in a sunny position. Succeeds in most soils.

Propagation

Sow seed directly in situ in early spring, or as soon as it ripens. Division can be done in spring or autumn. Larger clumps can be replanted straight into permanent positions, but smaller clumps are better potted up and grown on in a cold frame until well rooted, then planted out in spring.