Dwarf Fireweed

Dwarf Fireweed, which is also called Willowherb, is native to Alaska. It may be found in a variety of habitats, including disturbed areas and roadsides.

It is a clumping perennial growing up to 3 feet in height. It has thickly veined lance-shaped leaves which may be up to 5 inches long toward the base of the plant. The foliage, stem, and inflorescence are covered in bristly hairs and glands. The flowers have four petals which are so deeply notched they look like four pairs. They are generally light pink or magenta with dark veining although white flowers also occur.

Dwarf Fireweed flowers are photosensitive. This means the petals open in response to the sunshine. When it is cloudy they remain partially closed.

Indications—attachment to difficulty; doing things the hard way; overwhelmed during any kind of transformative healing process.

Healing Qualities—helps us open to and experience transformation with gentleness, grace and ease; helps us fine tune how we move through a healing process so we do not create more difficulties or pain.

The signature of this plant is very indicative of its healing gifts. The flowers are photosensitive—they open in the presence of the sun, and close with the sunset. Each day they open a bit more in response to the light. The essence of Dwarf Fireweed can teach us this same gentle process—opening, growing a little bit, and then resting as appropriate.

 This essence guides us in how to move through any transition gently, with small steps and with an awareness of how to care for ourselves in the process. It helps us pay more attention to pacing and ease, and to know when enough is enough. Transitions must happen but we can go through them in a way that doesn’t lead to more difficulties or pain, or add to the wounding we are attempting to heal.

Dwarf Fireweed reminds us that the amount of time it takes to heal a part of us into wholeness is irrelevant. Transformation isn't about dashing to the finish line. Instead, we are invited to stay present with what is going on, rest, and when we are ready, go deeper.

Dwarf Fireweed can be added to any essence formula to help regulate the healing process. This is important for those who are new to vibrational remedies or are not strong or stable enough at the moment to go through a healing crisis. Its presence in a dosage bottle gives a gentle push of encouragement and helps us open to the transformative qualities of the other essences in a gentler way.