Purpleleaf willowherb (Epilobium coloratum, Pl. Nov. Herb. Spreng.: 18 (1807))

Family: Onagraceae

Author: Biehler

Bibliography: Pl. Nov. Herb. Spreng.: 18 (1807)

Year: 1807

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Epilobium

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A., Hispaniola

Description

The Purpleleaf Willowherb, scientifically known as Epilobium coloratum, is a remarkable species within the Onagraceae family. Initially documented by the eminent botanist Biehler in 1807, this plant has captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

Native to expansive regions, the Purpleleaf Willowherb flourishes from eastern Canada to central and eastern United States, exemplifying a broad adaptability to diverse climates and habitats. In addition to its significant presence in North America, this resilient species is also found thriving in the rich floristic regions of Hispaniola.

Characteristically, Epilobium coloratum showcases some distinguishing features that contribute to its common name. The plant typically exhibits leaves with a noticeable purplish hue, which adds to its aesthetic appeal. These leaves not only serve an ornamental purpose but are also vital in the plant’s photosynthetic processes.

Belonging to the broader family of Onagraceae, the Purpleleaf Willowherb shares its lineage with several other well-known plants, embodying the unique traits and evolutionary nuances of this family. Understanding its familial ties helps in appreciating the ecological and botanical significance of Epilobium coloratum.

In conclusion, Epilobium coloratum, or the Purpleleaf Willowherb, stands out as a significant species within the Onagraceae family. Its extensive distribution across various geographies underscores its adaptability and ecological importance. Documented by Biehler over two centuries ago, it continues to be a subject of interest for its aesthetic and botanical value.

Common Names

Eng: purpleleaf willowherb, cinnamon willow-herb, purple-veined willowherb, bronze willowherb, cinnamon willowherb, eastern willowherb, purple-leaved willowherb
Fra: épilobe coloré
En: Purpleleaf willowherb, Purple-veined willowherb, Bronze willowherb, Cinnamon willowherb, Eastern willowherb, Purple-leaved willowherb
Fr: Épilobe coloré

Synonyms

• Epilobium coloratum f. umbrosum (Hausskn.)
• Epilobium divaricatum (Raf.)
• Epilobium domingense (Urb.)
• Epilobium coloratum f. minus (Hausskn.)
• Epilobium coloratum var. tenuifolium (H.H.Eaton)
• Epilobium coloratum f. albiflorum (Cockerell)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Dominican Republic (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Haiti (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jul 14, 2021 by desiree desiree (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 10, 2022 by Amanda J (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 16, 2022 by Rumi Mohammad (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by constance faust (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 27, 2022 by Ann W (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 20, 2021 by AnnaMarie Ansel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 22, 2019 by Mac Cheever (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 30, 2020 by Radman23 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 4, 2022 by constance faust (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 26, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 18, 2014 by EOL − Erika Mitchell (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

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

Fruit

Taken Sep 23, 2021 by guinnevere lowe (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 19, 2015 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3189139)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:611735-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epilobium coloratum Biehler)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Stem

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.5

Ph minimum: 4.5