Fireweed

Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) is the kind of wildflower that makes you stop and stare. With tall spires of vivid pink blooms that seem to glow against green mountain backdrops, this plant is a showstopper in summer and a favorite of both pollinators and people. It’s especially well-suited to naturalized gardens, restoration projects, and anyone looking to support native ecosystems; bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds love it.

Despite its delicate appearance, fireweed is resilient. It spreads readily via underground rhizomes and is often one of the first plants to colonize disturbed ground after fire or erosion, earning its name. It prefers moisture but doesn’t mind drying out now and then, especially once established. Fireweed thrives in full sun but can handle light shade, especially in higher elevations or cooler microclimates. Bonus: the young shoots, leaves, and flowers are edible and have a long history of traditional use among Indigenous peoples. Give it a bit of space to spread, and it will reward you with a stunning pink wave of blooms all summer long.