Glaucus Willowherb
Epilobium glaberrimum
Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Glaucus Willowherb as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Glaucous willowherb is a compact native perennial with narrow blue-green leaves and delicate pink to purple flowers. It blooms from summer into fall, forming small clumps that work well in mixed plantings or naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Glaucus Willowherb 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.
- Can appear weedy or wild to conventional gardeners
- May self-seed and spread beyond intended areas
- Goes fully dormant in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees and butterflies throughout summer and fall. Seeds also attract small birds and the foliage may host butterfly larvae.
Common questions
- How much sun does Glaucus Willowherb need?
- Glaucus Willowherb grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Glaucus Willowherb bloom?
- Glaucus Willowherb blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Glaucus Willowherb native?
- Glaucus Willowherb (Epilobium glaberrimum) is native to AZ, CA, ID, MT and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Glaucus Willowherb toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Glaucus Willowherb as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Glaucus Willowherb attract?
- Glaucus Willowherb draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Glaucus Willowherb HOA-friendly?
- Glaucus Willowherb 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 Glaucus Willowherb? 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