Pimpernel Willowherb
Epilobium anagallidifolium
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Pimpernel Willowherb (Epilobium anagallidifolium) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, ID, ME and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Pimpernel willowherb is a low-growing native perennial that forms small clumps with delicate foliage and tiny pink or white flowers in summer. This alpine species prefers cooler conditions and well-drained soils, making it suitable for rock gardens or naturalized areas. It typically stays compact and tidy throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pimpernel 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.
- Very small and inconspicuous appearance may look sparse
- Alpine nature means it may struggle in typical NC lowland conditions
- Willowherb family name association with aggressive weedy relatives
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and flies during its July-August bloom period. Its compact size makes it a subtle addition to pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pimpernel Willowherb need?
- Pimpernel Willowherb grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Pimpernel Willowherb bloom?
- Pimpernel Willowherb blooms in July and August.
- Where is Pimpernel Willowherb native?
- Pimpernel Willowherb (Epilobium anagallidifolium) is native to CA, CO, ID, ME and 8 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Pimpernel Willowherb attract?
- Pimpernel Willowherb draws bees and flies.
- Is Pimpernel Willowherb HOA-friendly?
- Pimpernel 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Pimpernel 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