Epilobium (Chamerion) angustifolium

When my husband and I first moved to this property in 2006, we had fireweed growing along our driveway, in the meadows, and by our house. This is an image taken in 1991 showing fireweed growing by our hot tub.

But I noticed the tops of the plants were beginning to be deformed; it looked like a virus was infecting the plants and the plants were not producing flowers. Sadly, in 2008 we have very few fireweed left. I have not seen these remaining fireweed bloom as the deer eat them to the ground every year.

Seed

2004  I collected some fireweed seed and planted it in various places near our house. None germinated.

Transplant

2004  I dug some fireweed sprouts that were growing near our house in my small side garden. This shows fireweed roots; fireweed apparently spreads with runners. I planted the roots but was not able to keep them watered. None grew.

Future Plans

2008  We still have fireweed trying to grow near our house. I would like to find a way to protect these plants from the deer to see if they are still being attacked by the virus. If the fireweed is not infected with the virus, I will try to propagate them again.