Marsh Willow Herb
Epilobium palustrefam. Scrophulariaceae
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Pl. 6E54 — Epilobium palustre
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IOverview
Overview
Marsh Willow Herb (Epilobium palustre) is a perennial forb found in the Canary Islands where it thrives in moist environments with light to heavy soils. This plant reaches a height of about 0.4 meters and is known for its edible leaves and shoots, making it a valuable resource in local cuisine. Its distinctive feature lies in its adaptability to various soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the conditions remain moist. The plant belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family and has a light energy rating of 8/10, indicating its moderate growth requirements.
Quick answers
What is Marsh Willow Herb?
Marsh Willow Herb (Epilobium palustre) is a perennial forb found in the Canary Islands where it thrives in moist environments with light to heavy soils. This plant reaches a height of about 0.4 meters and is known for its edible leaves and shoots, making it a valuable resource in local cuisine.
What is Marsh Willow Herb used for?
Traditionally used for topical & skin, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Marsh Willow Herb
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Marsh Willow Herb has been traditionally used in topical applications to support skin health, particularly for minor irritations and wounds.
The mechanism by which Marsh Willow Herb supports skin health is not fully characterised but may involve anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial compounds.
- Marsh Willow Herb has been traditionally used in European herbalism for digestive issues, often prepared as a decoction to soothe the stomach and aid digestion.
The mechanism by which Marsh Willow Herb supports digestion is not fully characterised but may involve compounds that interact with gut motility or reduce inflammation.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Marsh Willow Herb support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Marsh Willow Herb thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It is a perennial that grows to about 0.4 meters tall and is suitable for temperate regions. For best results, plant it in soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5. The herb requires moderate light, making it adaptable to various lighting conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist, as it thrives in wet environments. Propagate through seeds or division of established plants. Harvest its edible leaves and shoots for culinary use.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.4 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–5
For first-time growers
How to grow Marsh Willow Herb for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Marsh Willow Herb in a moist, light soil environment for a simple and rewarding gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Marsh Willow Herb seeds or young plants, a container or garden bed, good quality potting mix if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil with organic matter for better drainage. Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors once the ground is workable, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth. Harvest leaves as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough light, using too much fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: Marsh Willow Herb from the Canary Islands is edible and its leaves and shoots can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used fresh in salads or prepared as a mild tea. Skip the detailed recipes here.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe12 regions
native (12)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)AfghanistanChina
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:California, Amur, Buryatiya, Czechoslovakia, Føroyar, Altay, Connecticut, East Himalaya, Alberta, Baltic States, British Columbia, Chita, Colorado
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Scrophulariaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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