Fireweed Fluff

Day 343: The Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium) is almost at the end of its blooming season and most plants have already entered the seed-dispersal phase. The seeds of this plant are tiny, almost microscopic, and each one is attached to a silky, airy "parachute" which can be borne for great distances on the breath of the wind. Each slender seed capsule contains dozens of seeds waiting to take wing.

Fireweed had many uses among the native peoples of the Pacific Northwest, including being mixed with mountain goat wool as a weaving thread, or in combination with down for stuffing. The stems provided long, durable fibers for spinning into fishing nets, and the greens (a source of vitamin C) were eaten either cooked or raw.

Fireweed is among the first plants to colonize burned-over areas such as clearcuts, hence its common name. I'm sure these seeds will be on their way soon!