Bog willowherb (Epilobium leptophyllum, Précis Découv. Somiol.: 41 (1814))

Family: Onagraceae

Author: Raf.

Bibliography: Précis Découv. Somiol.: 41 (1814)

Year: 1814

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Epilobium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Alaska to U.S.A.

Description

Bog willowherb, scientifically named Epilobium leptophyllum, is a fascinating member of the Onagraceae family. This plant was first described and catalogued in Précis Découv. Somiol. by Rafinesque in 1814. Renowned for its delicate and slender appearance, Bog willowherb has carved a niche for itself in the diverse flora of North America.

Thriving in wetlands and moist environments, this species is predominantly found from the expansive wilderness of Alaska down through various parts of the United States. Its presence marks ecological significance as it adapts well to soggy terrains, contributing to the rich biodiversity of these regions.

Characterized by its thin, wispy leaves and small, yet vibrant flowers, Epilobium leptophyllum is easily distinguished among other wetland flora. Despite its fragile look, the plant is robust in its habitat, often forming dense clusters that enhance the aesthetic and ecological value of the areas it inhabits.

Bog willowherb plays an important role in its ecosystem. It provides shelter and support to numerous insects and small wildlife, acting as a crucial component of the food web in marshy and wetland environments. Moreover, it helps in stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion, showcasing its environmental importance beyond mere beauty.

In botanical studies, Bog willowherb serves as an excellent example of plant adaptation and resilience, providing endless opportunities for research and observation. For botanists and ecologists, understanding this species contributes to broader insights into wetland conservation and the intricate patterns of plant life in these moist ecosystems.

In summary, Epilobium leptophyllum, with its widespread occurrence from Alaska to the continental U.S., showcases the remarkable adaptability and significance of Bog willowherb within the Onagraceae family. Its presence not only adds to the biodiversity but also underscores the intricate balance within its native habitats.

Common Names

Eng: bog willowherb, linear-leaf willowherb, narrow-leaved willowherb
Fra: épilobe leptophylle, épilobe à feuilles étroites
En: Bog willowherb, Linear-leaf Willowherb, Narrow-leaved willowherb
Fr: Épilobe leptophylle, Épilobe à feuilles étroites

Synonyms

• Epilobium rosmarinifolium (Pursh)
• Epilobium oliganthum var. gracile (Farw.)
• Epilobium palustre var. gracile ((Farw.) Dorn)
• Epilobium lineare f. umbrosum (Hausskn.)
• Epilobium densum var. nesophilum (Fernald)
• Epilobium leptophyllum f. umbrosum ((Hausskn.) Fernald)
• Epilobium squamatum (Nutt. ex Pursh)
• Epilobium tenellum (Raf.)
• Epilobium nesophilum ((Fernald) Fernald)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Washington (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. (public)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − S. Seavey (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3189116)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:612005-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epilobium leptophyllum Raf.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Slow

Growth

Ph maximum: 6.5

Ph minimum: 4.0