Epilobium palustre, commonly known as marsh willowherb, is a perennial herb that is part of the circumboreal flora, extending its range into mountainous regions in the south. It typically grows up to 20 inches tall and features hairy stems with a mix of oval to linear leaves. The plant blooms with small, delicate white or pink flowers arranged in hairy inflorescences, each with a distinctive club-shaped stigma, during the summer months. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite numerous, creating a soft, attractive display. The fruit is a hairy capsule that releases numerous seeds, aiding in its spread. Marsh willowherb is naturally found in a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, fens, wet meadows, and stream banks, where it plays a role in supporting local ecosystems.

Marsh willowherb is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in the creation of bog gardens and other water features. It is also appreciated for its wildlife value, as it provides nectar for pollinators. Cultivation requires consistently moist to wet soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. While not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can become invasive if conditions allow for unchecked growth. Gardeners should be aware of its spreading habit and manage it accordingly to prevent it from dominating other plantings.CC BY-SA 4.0