Codlins and Cream: A Beautiful But Problematic Wetland Plant
With a name as charming as codlins and cream, you might think Epilobium hirsutum would be a delightful addition to your garden. While this perennial does offer lovely pink flowers and attracts pollinators, there’s more to this story than meets the eye. Before you fall for its summer blooms, let’s dive into why this European native might not be the best choice for North American gardens.
What is Codlins and Cream?
Codlins and cream is a tall, herbaceous perennial that belongs to the evening primrose family. This forb (a non-woody flowering plant) can reach impressive heights and produces clusters of pink to purple flowers during the summer months. The plant gets its whimsical common name from the appearance of its flowers, which some say resemble cream being poured over apples (codlins being an old term for cooking apples).
Native Status and Distribution
Here’s where things get complicated. Codlins and cream is not native to North America – it’s originally from Europe and western Asia. However, it has established itself across much of Canada and the United States, currently growing in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and numerous U.S. states including Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
The Invasive Species Alert
Before you consider adding this plant to your garden, there’s something important you need to know: codlins and cream is classified as invasive in some areas. In Wisconsin, it has a Prohibited/Restricted invasive status, meaning it’s recognized as harmful to native ecosystems. This aggressive spreader can quickly overtake wetland areas, crowding out native plants that local wildlife depends on.
Why Gardeners Might Be Tempted
Despite its problematic nature, it’s easy to see why some gardeners might be drawn to codlins and cream:
- Attractive pink to purple summer flowers
- Thrives in wet conditions where other plants struggle
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
- Hardy perennial (zones 3-9)
- Low maintenance once established
Growing Conditions and Habitat
Codlins and cream is classified as a facultative wetland plant across all regions of North America, meaning it usually grows in wetlands but can also survive in drier conditions. This adaptability is part of what makes it so successful – and so problematic. The plant prefers:
- Moist to wet soils
- Full sun to partial shade
- Various soil types
- Consistent moisture
Why We Don’t Recommend Planting It
While codlins and cream might seem like an easy solution for wet, difficult areas in your landscape, we strongly advise against planting it. Here’s why:
- It spreads aggressively through both rhizomes and seeds
- It can quickly dominate wetland areas
- It crowds out native plants that support local ecosystems
- It’s difficult to control once established
- It’s listed as invasive in some regions
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of codlins and cream, consider these beautiful native wetland plants that provide similar benefits without the ecological risks:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – Pink to purple flowers, excellent for pollinators
- Blue flag iris (Iris versicolor) – Stunning purple flowers, loves wet feet
- Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) – Pink flowers, essential for monarch butterflies
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – Brilliant red flowers, hummingbird magnet
If You Already Have It
If codlins and cream has already established itself in your landscape, consider removing it to prevent further spread. The plant can be difficult to eradicate due to its extensive root system, so you may need to combine several removal methods and be persistent. Always dispose of plant material properly – never compost invasive species.
The Bottom Line
While codlins and cream might catch your eye with its charming name and pretty flowers, it’s a case where beauty comes with a cost. By choosing native alternatives, you’ll get similar aesthetic appeal while supporting local ecosystems and avoiding potential headaches down the road. Your local wildlife – and your gardening neighbors – will thank you for making the responsible choice.
