Chamaenerion angustifolium (formerly Epilobium angustifolium), commonly known as Fireweed, is a native perennial wildflower that grows in open woodlands, prairies, forest edges, and disturbed areas—especially those recovering from fire—throughout parts of northern and central Illinois. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils and full sun to partial shade.
Fireweed is known for its tall, striking spikes of vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers open sequentially from the bottom of the spike upward, providing a long blooming period. Its lance-shaped leaves grow alternately along the reddish stems, and the plant can reach heights of 2 to 5 feet, adding vertical drama to native plantings.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Chamaenerion angustifolium is an eye-catching and ecologically valuable choice for pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, and disturbed-site restorations. It supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers, and its seeds are dispersed by wind thanks to silky hairs, allowing it to colonize open areas quickly. Fireweed’s ability to thrive in recently cleared or burned areas makes it a symbol of ecological resilience and natural recovery.
Chamaenerion angustifolium (formerly Epilobium angustifolium), commonly known as Fireweed, is a native perennial wildflower that grows in open woodlands, prairies, forest edges, and disturbed areas—especially those recovering from fire—throughout parts of northern and central Illinois. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils and full sun to partial shade.
Fireweed is known for its tall, striking spikes of vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers open sequentially from the bottom of the spike upward, providing a long blooming period. Its lance-shaped leaves grow alternately along the reddish stems, and the plant can reach heights of 2 to 5 feet, adding vertical drama to native plantings.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Chamaenerion angustifolium is an eye-catching and ecologically valuable choice for pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, and disturbed-site restorations. It supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers, and its seeds are dispersed by wind thanks to silky hairs, allowing it to colonize open areas quickly. Fireweed’s ability to thrive in recently cleared or burned areas makes it a symbol of ecological resilience and natural recovery.
Bloom: early to late summer
Habitats: areas where trees and brush have been removed by fire; damp ravines; moist sedge meadows; remnant bogs; sandy marshes near dunes; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 5 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: soil with abundant organic material with or without sand
