<i>Epilobium melanocaulon</i>(E. melanocaulon) hero image

Epilobium Melanocaulon

Epilobium melanocaulon

Not specified

This native plant, known as Epilobium melanocaulon (scientific name: E. melanocaulon ), is a remarkable species endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its unique features, ecological role, and cultural significance. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its care, propagation, and importance within the New Zealand ecosystem. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for Browse All .

<i>Epilobium melanocaulon</i>(E. melanocaulon) showing <i>Epilobium melanocaulon</i>growth habit
Image credit: Epilobium Melanocaulon ( E. melanocaulon ) - Photo via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Identification and Physical Characteristics

Epilobium melanocaulon , commonly known as Black-stemmed Willow Herb, is a distinctive native perennial herb endemic to New Zealand. It forms compact, much-branched shrublets, typically growing between 0.1 and 0.3 meters tall, from a stout taproot. Its most characteristic trait is its striking purple-black to maroon stems, though they can sometimes be green, decorated with dense strigillose hairs in lines. The leaves are sessile to subsessile, mostly opposite towards the base and alternate near the inflorescence, and are dark dull green, purple-black, or maroon, narrowly elliptic to elliptic in shape, with remotely and coarsely serrated margins. It produces erect and delicate white flowers that flush pink after pollination, appearing from December to April. The capsules are glabrous, brown, and range from 18-38 mm long, containing purple-brown, orange, or orange-brown seeds with a white, caducous coma that aids in wind dispersal. This species is a riparian specialist, thriving in shingly riverbeds, moraines, scree slopes, and lake margins at elevations ranging from approximately 110 to 1200 meters.

Quick Facts

E. melanocaulon quick facts
Scientific Name E. melanocaulon
Height 30-80 cm
Spread 30-60 cm
Water Needs Moderate to high
Light Partial shade to full sun
Frost Tolerance Good
Salt Tolerance Poor
Growth Rate Moderate
Lifespan Perennial

Climate Best Suited to

Epilobium melanocaulon is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Epilobium melanocaulon
City Climate Suitability
Auckland High
Wellington High
Christchurch Medium

Plant Habitat

Natural Occurrence and Ecology

Epilobium melanocaulon is a plant endemic to New Zealand, found in both the North and South Islands. Its natural habitat spans from lowland to alpine regions. It typically grows in riparian areas, including open braided riverbeds, gravelly riverbeds, and watercourses. It can also be found on moraines, scree slopes, and in gravelly areas along lake margins. Occasionally, it is observed in urban areas, particularly along railway tracks in the eastern South Island.

Growing Requirements

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

  • Well-drained
  • Loamy

Light Requirements

Grows best in partial to full sun.

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade

Water Requirements

Requires regular watering during dry periods.

  • Regular
  • Drought tolerant once established

Planting and Establishing

Establishment Guidance

Plant Epilobium melanocaulon in a hole twice the width of the root ball.

Proper establishment is key to long-term success. Ensure the planting hole is twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with a mix of native soil and organic compost. Initial watering should be thorough, followed by regular monitoring during the first two growing seasons to ensure the plant becomes well-anchored and resilient to local climate fluctuations.

Ecological Role

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact

Provides habitat and food for native fauna.

This species plays a vital role in its local ecosystem, providing essential habitat and food sources for native biodiversity. Its presence supports complex ecological interactions, contributing to the overall health and stability of the environment. By planting this native, you help maintain the intricate web of life that defines New Zealand's unique natural heritage.

Uses & Significance

Garden Uses

Ideal for rock gardens and native borders.

  • Rock gardens
  • Ground cover

Ecological Value

Supports local pollinators.

  • Birds
  • Insects

The versatility of this plant makes it a valuable addition to many New Zealand gardens. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it offers practical benefits such as soil stabilization and shelter for smaller plants. Its historical and modern uses highlight its enduring importance in both traditional practices and contemporary landscape design, making it a thoughtful choice for any restoration or gardening project.

Landscaping Uses

Adds texture and form to modern landscapes.

In a landscape setting, this plant provides excellent structure and year-round interest. Its unique form and foliage can be used to create focal points or as a cohesive element in a larger native planting scheme. It pairs well with other New Zealand natives, allowing for the creation of diverse and resilient garden environments that reflect the natural beauty of Aotearoa.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Mulch and apply balanced fertilizer.

  • Fertilize
  • Mulch

Summer

Water deeply during dry spells.

  • Water
  • Check for pests

Autumn

Tidy up any dead foliage.

  • Prune lightly
  • Plant new specimens

Winter

Protect from heavy frosts if necessary.

  • Frost protection

When to Prune and How Much

Minimal pruning required to maintain shape.

  • Remove dead branches

Always use clean, sharp tools.

Regular maintenance through careful pruning ensures the plant remains healthy and maintains its desired shape. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood to promote better air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens. Proper pruning techniques help the plant direct its energy toward new growth, resulting in a more robust and aesthetically pleasing specimen in your garden.

How to Grow Epilobium Melanocaulon

Cultivating Epilobium melanocaulon ( E. melanocaulon ) is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener interested in New Zealand's unique flora. This species can be propagated through several methods, each requiring specific conditions to ensure healthy growth and establishment. Successful propagation depends on mimicking the plant's natural environment and providing consistent care during the early stages of development.

From Seed

Propagation from seed is often the most effective way to produce a large number of Epilobium Melanocaulon plants. Seeds should be collected when they are fully mature. Freshly collected seeds generally have higher germination rates than those that have been stored for long periods.

Sow fresh seeds in a seed-raising mix.

  1. Collect seeds
  2. Sow in trays

Keep moist until germination.

From Cuttings

For those wishing to replicate specific characteristics of a parent plant, vegetative propagation via cuttings is the preferred method. This technique ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the source. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the appropriate season usually yield the best results for this species.

Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

  1. Take cuttings
  2. Use rooting hormone

Additional Methods

Depending on the growth habit of Epilobium melanocaulon , other methods such as division or layering might also be viable options. Division is particularly suitable for plants that form dense clumps or have spreading root systems, while layering can be used for species with trailing or flexible stems.

Division can be done in early spring.

  1. Divide clumps
  2. Replant immediately

Pests & Diseases

Generally resistant to major pests.

While generally resilient, maintaining optimal growing conditions is the best defense against pests and diseases. Regular monitoring allows for early detection of any issues, which can often be managed through cultural practices or organic interventions. Ensuring good air circulation and appropriate watering will significantly reduce the plant's susceptibility to common environmental stresses and pathogens.

Cultural Significance

While there is no specific cultural significance attributed directly to Epilobium melanocaulon in standard references, the broader Epilobium genus, commonly known as willowherbs, has some cultural and practical uses.Food and Medicine:In North-western North America, fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium) is used as a sweetener in various foods like candy, jellies, and ice cream. Its young leaves, roots, and shoots are edible and rich in provitamin A and vitamin C. The Dena'ina people used its sap on wounds for its believed anti-inflammatory properties.Symbolism and Ecology:Fireweed is the floral emblem of Yukon in Canada, Hedmark in Norway, and Southern Ostrobothnia in Finland. It is known for rapidly colonizing burnt ground; for example, it covered bomb sites in London during World War II.Horticulture: Epilobium melanocaulon is described as an attractive species suitable for rocky gardens or as a pot plant, though it tends to be short-lived.

  • Traditional medicine
  • Crafts

Bonus Tip

Excellent for low-maintenance gardens.

For an extra boost, consider applying a thin layer of high-quality organic mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually improves soil structure as it breaks down. This simple step can make a significant difference in the plant's overall vigor and resilience, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Plant Conservation

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Epilobium melanocaulon is not explicitly stated with a formal classification (e.g., IUCN Red List category) in the sources cited here. However, it is identified as a native and endemic taxon to New Zealand. It is described as "abundant in shingly riverbeds, moraines and occasionally screes" in New Zealand, found at elevations of approximately 110-1200 meters.