Fireweed
Chamerion angustifolium
iskotewask(Cree)
One of Alberta's most iconic wildflowers, carpeting roadsides, clearings, and burned areas with brilliant magenta spikes from July through August. A pioneer species — the first to colonize after wildfires. Young spring shoots are edible like asparagus; leaves brew a vitamin-rich tea; flowers produce a prized honey. Each flower spike can produce 80,000 seeds, carried on silky parachutes that float for kilometres.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Province-wide, Zone 1
Light
Full sun
Bloom Time
July–Aug
Soil
Tolerates most soils; thrives in disturbed, well-drained ground
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Rhizome division in spring or fall is fastest (every piece sprouts). Seed direct-sown on surface after fall dispersal — keeps best fresh. Self-seeds aggressively in disturbed ground.
Spacing
45–60 cm (spreads rapidly by rhizomes)
Always verify plant identification with multiple sources before consuming any wild plant. This information is for educational purposes only.
