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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Marsh Willowherb need?
- Marsh Willowherb grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Marsh Willowherb bloom?
- Marsh Willowherb blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Marsh Willowherb native?
- Marsh Willowherb (Epilobium palustre) is native to CA, CO, CT, ID and 17 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Marsh Willowherb attract?
- Marsh Willowherb draws bees and flies.
- Is Marsh Willowherb HOA-friendly?
- Marsh 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 Marsh 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