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Broad-leaf Fireweed

Chamaenerion latifolium

Last reviewed: June 2026

Broad-leaf Fireweed (Chamaenerion latifolium)
Photo: Gillfoto from Juneau, Alaska, United States / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

UT

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, moths

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Broad-leaf fireweed is a medium-height perennial wildflower with showy pink to purple flower spikes that bloom through summer. This native alpine plant has broad, silvery-green leaves and forms neat clumps that work well in xeriscaping. It goes dormant in winter, leaving behind attractive seed pods before dying back completely.

In an HOA neighborhood

Broad-leaf Fireweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Common name includes 'weed' which raises HOA red flags
  • Can look sparse or weedy when not in bloom
  • May spread beyond intended boundaries

Wildlife value

The abundant summer flowers provide excellent nectar for bees, butterflies, and moths.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Broad-leaf Fireweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.