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Purpleleaf Willowherb

Epilobium coloratum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Purpleleaf Willowherb (Epilobium coloratum)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Purpleleaf willowherb is a native perennial with slender stems and small pink to purple flowers that bloom from summer into fall. The foliage often develops attractive purplish tints, especially in cooler weather. It forms modest colonies through underground runners but remains well-behaved in garden settings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Purpleleaf 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.

  • Small flowers and thin stems create informal wildflower appearance
  • Can look weedy or unkempt to unfamiliar observers
  • Common name includes 'weed' which may cause concern

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for songbirds in late 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 Purpleleaf Willowherb fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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