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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.

Common questions

How much sun does Broad-leaf Fireweed need?
Broad-leaf Fireweed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Broad-leaf Fireweed bloom?
Broad-leaf Fireweed blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Broad-leaf Fireweed native?
Broad-leaf Fireweed (Chamaenerion latifolium) is native to UT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Broad-leaf Fireweed attract?
Broad-leaf Fireweed draws bees, butterflies, and moths.
Is Broad-leaf Fireweed HOA-friendly?
Broad-leaf Fireweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

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.

Ready to grow Broad-leaf Fireweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz