Codlins And Cream

Epilobium hirsutum

Physical Characteristics

Epilobium hirsutum is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, hoverflies. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to N. E. and S. Africa, temperate Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Tea The leaves are used to make a tea[183]. This is often drunk in Russia, where it is called 'kaporie tea'[4]. The leaves are also sometimes sucked for their salty taste[183]. Edible leaves[177]. No more details are given in the report but caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Astringent The leaves have been used as astringents, but there are some reports of violent poisoning with epileptic-like convulsions as a result of its use.

Known Hazards

One report says that the plant might be poisonous[179]. Another says that it causes epileptiform convulsions[240].