River Beauty (Epilobium latifolium)

Family: Onagraceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Epilobium latifolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet, tender and pleasant tasting. — Young shoots - cooked.; Used like asparagus.; Very poor quality.; Young leaves - raw.

Habitat & North American Range

River gravels, margins of streams and damp slopes. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)