SUNLIGHT

• Full sun (6 - 8 hours)

GROWTH

• 4 - 8 ft tall

• Spreads through underground rhizomes, forming colonies.

WATER

• It requires regular watering for the first 3 years to establish a strong root system. After that, water only during long dry spells — it is drought-tolerant once established.

BLOSSOM SEASON

• Late spring to early autumn

POLLINATOR

• Fireweed is very pollinator-friendly. Its magenta, deep pink, or rose-colored egg-shaped flowers attract bees, flies, other insects, and hummingbirds.

PREFERED SOIL

• Fireweed can adapt to different soil types; it prefers well-drained, sandy loam.

FERTILIZER

• Fireweed generally does not require fertilizer. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote vigorous growth, particularly in soils with limited nutrients. 

MEDICINAL

• Topical use: anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, used as an astringent and as a tonic.

• Tea: Young leaves can be dried to make a mild herbal tea.

DYES

• Pale pink to purple from flowers and 

• Yellow-green to brown from leaves and stems.

WHY CHOSEN

•  It's common in the Okanagan area.

•  Great cultural, ecological, and medicinal value.

•  Excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.