Epilobium ciliatum

Willowherbs are in the Onagraceae family.  They are annuals that are more common in cool regions but occur occasionally as a cool-season weed in warmer areas. Seedlings are small and slow to establish, but once established, plants elongate to 18 inches tall. This weed is becoming more prevalent in container nurseries, likely spreading in contaminated nursery crops. Inspect liners to prevent introduction. Its seeds are spread by the wind.  Preventing the plants from going to seed can curb its spread.  Willowherbs are not well managed by herbicides currently labeled for use. Herbicide efficacy rankings for this species are based on limited experimental data.  This weed is similar to northern willowherb  (Epilobium hirsutum)

They can be found growing in locations where the soil has been disturbed such as in forests, along hillside ledges and ridges, in meadows and fields and along the shores of waterways.  

The Scientific name ciliatum comes from the Greek word epi which translates to 'on the pod or capsule' and ciliatum referring to the hairs giving a fringe to the plant.  

An easy plant to get children to draw and to get them involved in seeing the beauty of the great outdoors.  

It is a host plant for the larvae of both moths and caterpillars.  The moths include the Hawk moth (Sphingidae) and the Elephant hawk moth (Deilephila elpenor) while the butterflies include Mourning cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) and White admiral (Limenitis arthemis).

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.  Weedy plant that can be invasive.  Non-invasive in North Carolina.