Epimedium

Genus: Epimedium (epi-MEE-deum)

Common name(s): Bishop’s Hat, Barrenwort, Fairy Wings

Origin: 44 species in the wild, originating from Eurasia and the Mediterranean

Dainty describes the clusters of small flowers that emerge in early spring. Epimedium flowers come in a range of colors—including white, yellow, apricot, rose, and lilac. Their size varies from ½” to 3″ in diameter, and they’re borne on slender, branched stems which give them the appearance of floating above the ground. The individual flowers are little nodding cups, often with columbine-like spurs. Bloom time is April through May, and it’s during this time that it’s best to cut away the foliage from the previous year, keeping it fresh and accentuating the blooms.

Finely textured describes the foliage of Epimediums. The compound leaves arise from the ground on thin, wiry stems. Leaf shape varies slightly from heart shaped to lanceolate, and they unfurl in shades of bronze, mottled red or spring green. Most species are evergreen in our climate.

Durable describes the Epimedium’s ability to tie the shade garden together in some of the most difficult of garden conditions. They are one of the few evergreen ground covers that can thrive successfully in dry shade! They can grow in partial to full shade with shallow rhizomes, making them perfect for under trees, rhododendrons and camellias.

Epimediums are also deer resistant and easy to care for. To get them off to a good start, amend the top 4-8” of soil with compost (the ratio is 2/3 soil, 1/3 compost.) Add all purpose or transplanting fertilizer in the bottom of the hole. Keep plants moist through their first season so they can establish. They are best planted in spring, fall or in the cooler parts of an early summer day. Epimediums do not thrive in hot sun, so position them in partial to dappled shade. They can grow in deep shade, but will bear sporadic blooms.

These tough plants prefer a cool woodland situation under deciduous trees. Watering is always necessary through the first season while they’re getting established. Please refer to species listing below for drought tolerance. Furthermore, many species can withstand temperatures down to -10˚F. As always, check individual species listings for zone ratings.