Chamaenerion angustifolium

Fireweed

Fireweed
aka Epilobium angustifolium, Willow-herb, Rosebay Willowherb. Often the first to emerge in burned or logged over areas. A beautiful but invasive plant spreads by winged seeds and extensive runners. The rose to purple flowers have four petals and are fairly large, 1″ or more (2 – 3 cm) across. The plant can grow to 6′. Very common in dry open places particularly clearings and disturbed areas below 5,500′ elevation. Possibility that Alpine Fireweed, Chamaenerion latifolium, is included in the images (along Burroughs Loop and Mt. Fremont trails at about 7,000′ elevation).

Family:

Onagraceae - EVENING-PRIMROSE FAMILY

Genus:

Chamaenerion or Chamerion from Greek chamai 'dwarf' and nerion 'orleander'

Species:

angustifolium mean 'narrow-leaved'
Photo location: From several locations including South Burroughs Loop trial, Reflection Lakes parking area and west of Glacier View Wilderness. Also included is an image from the Mt. Fremont trail, approx. elev. 7,000′, that could be C. latifolium.