Dear Helen,

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension about fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium). It can make a lovely garden plant, however, it must be kept in check because it spreads by both rhizomes as well as from seed.

If you have a source for the plant, you can try to either collect seeds or transplant a root division. Here is more information about fireweed:
https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/chamerion_angustifolium.shtml

I hope you find this information helpful. Please write again if you have other questions.



Hello Helen,

Fireweed prefers full sun and moist soils such as along streams or bogs. However, the soil must also be well-drained since it cannot tolerate water-logged soils. 

Fireweed is effective in taking up nutrients from the soil. It grows in average soils and is not particular about the soil pH. I suggest you maintain soil health by applying an inch of mature compost annually.

Good luck with your fireweed!