Etymology: Epilobium: from 2 Greek words epi, "upon," and lobos, "a pod or capsule," as the flower and capsule appear together, the corolla being borne on the end of the ovary
Plants: erect, perennial, 2'-6' tall forb; stems usually single
Leaves: many, crowded, alternate, lance-like, stalkless
Flowers: pink to purple, 4-parted, 3/4"-1 1/2" wide, stigma with 4 branches, petals not notched; inflorescence a long, terminal cluster (raceme) of stalked flowers; blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: capsule, seeds with tufts of hair at the top
Habitat: moist; forests, clearings
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 3, Wetland Indicator = FAC USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"