Fireweed
J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 590.
Mark W. Skinner @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Names: Fireweed (English); Chamerion angustifolium (Latin)
Other Common Names: Bombweed, Rosebay Willowherb
Habitat and Origin: Found near highways and railroads or near other high disturbance sights and well up onto mountains all across North America and Eurasia.
Characteristics: Perennial plant with alternating leaves and simple, hairless stems. Has small rose to purple flowers in elongated clusters with the lower flowers blooming first.
Edible Portion: Leaves , roots and young shoot tips are edible raw or cooked.
Optimal Growing Conditions: Can grow in all soil types with sun or partial shades.
Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Inner cortex was rubbed on hands and face to protect from cold elements. Tea was also made from the roots and inner cortex and given to babies as relief of constipation. A syrup was extracted from the stems and flowers and added to berry cakes.