Chamaenerion angustifolium
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Fireweed, or willow herb, is an extremely hardy perennial found growing throughout much of North America. It is a native species in Idaho and a member of the willowherb family. It is an heirloom variety. Its name stems from its ability to populate an area after a wildfire. In 1980, after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens, it was one of the first known plants to appear.
This plant is relatively widespread in its distribution, it can be found anywhere from Alaska to California to the northern Atlantic Coast. It has the capability of growing in a variety of climates, even in boreal forests. As a result, it has been significant to many different tribes. According to the Native American Ethnobotany Database, this plant has been used from tribes such as the Coosuk Abenaki Nation, Alaska Native Peoples, Atikamekw, Cheyenne, Nuxalk Nation, Blackfeet Nation, Cree Nation, Inuit,
Kitasoo / Xai’xais, Kwakiutl, Menomini, Navajo Nation, Ojibwe, Onondaga Nation, S'klallam tribe and many others. We are open and interested in feedback from anyone who has more information on the ancestral connections to this plant. To contact us with comments or questions, please email Reiley at communications@snakeriverseeds.com.
Fireweed generally grows up to 4-6 feet tall but has been known to reach heights of up to 9 feet! It is important to consider location near a fence or against a trellis when sowing this incredible seed.
For more information about growing this plant, visit the USDA plant guide.
Seeds grown by Bluebird Forest Garden in Orofino, Idaho.
200 seeds.
Directions: Direct seed in fall to allow germination and some growth before winter. Sow on soil surface.
|
Planting Depth |
Seed Spacing |
Weeks to Germination |
Days to Maturity |
| Surface |
6” |
1-2 |
30-60 days |