Polttimilla

Polttimilla, also known as the fireweed (*Chamerion angustifolium* or *Epilobium angustifolium*), is a perennial flowering plant native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is commonly found in disturbed areas such as clearcuts, wildfire sites, and roadsides, where it thrives due to its ability to colonize open spaces quickly. The plant is well-adapted to post-fire environments, earning it the nickname "fireweed" because it often becomes abundant shortly after forest fires.

Polttimilla belongs to the evening primrose family (Onagraceae) and is characterized by its slender, upright stems that can reach heights of 30 to 150 centimeters. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged alternately along the stem. The most distinctive feature of the plant is its clusters of small, pink to magenta flowers, which bloom from late spring to early autumn. These flowers are typically four-petaled and open in the evening, giving rise to its scientific name *Chamerion*, derived from the Greek words for "evening" and "glory."

Beyond its ecological role, polttimilla has historical and cultural significance. Indigenous peoples in North America, including the Haida and Tlingit, have used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating burns, skin irritations, and respiratory ailments. The roots and leaves were also consumed as food, though they are generally considered mild in flavor. In traditional Finnish folklore, the plant was sometimes associated with healing and was used in remedies for various ailments.

Polttimilla is not considered invasive but is valued for its ecological benefits, such as soil stabilization and providing nectar for pollinators. Its presence in disturbed landscapes helps facilitate the recovery of plant communities by preventing erosion and promoting biodiversity. While it is not widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, its striking flowers and adaptability make it a notable species in both natural and human-altered environments.