Marsh Willowherb
Epilobium palustre
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CA, CO, CT, ID and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Marsh willowherb is a native perennial that produces small pink flowers from July through September. This moisture-loving plant grows in clumps and thrives in consistently wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens or naturally boggy areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh Willowherb takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may look swampy
- Can spread aggressively in ideal conditions
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and flies for pollination. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
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 Marsh Willowherb fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.