Chamerion latifolium

Chamerion latifolium

Plant Family

Onagraceae

Botanical Description

Dwarf Fireweed is a perennial herb growing 10-40 cm tall with lance-shaped, blue-green leaves and showy pink to magenta flowers with four petals. It spreads by rhizomes and often forms colonies.

Cautions

Generally considered safe for food use. No significant safety concerns documented.

Habitat

Gravelly riverbanks, glacial outwash plains, scree slopes, disturbed ground in arctic and alpine areas.

Harvest Instructions

Young shoots and leaves harvested in spring before flowering. Flowers harvested when in bloom.

Geographic Distribution

Circumpolar arctic and alpine regions including Iceland, Greenland, Scandinavia, and northern North America.

Growth Conditions

Full sun. Well-drained, gravelly or sandy soil. Tolerates poor soil and cold temperatures.

Plant Size

10-40 cm

Pests & Diseases

Generally pest and disease free.

Effects on the Body

Nutritious, anti-inflammatory, supports skin health. Similar properties to the related Rosebay Willowherb but milder.

Active Constituents

Vitamins A and C, flavonoids, tannins, mucilage.

Safety Information

Dosage

Young shoots eaten as vegetable. Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried herb in boiling water.

Culinary Use

Young shoots and leaves eaten raw or cooked like spinach. Rich in vitamins. Important traditional food in arctic regions.

Folklore & Historical Use

Traditional food source for Inuit and other northern peoples. One of the first plants to colonize disturbed ground after volcanic eruptions or glacial retreat.

Scientific Research

Limited clinical research specific to this species. Related species Chamerion angustifolium (Fireweed) has been studied for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Contains flavonoids and tannins.