About
A deciduous rhizomatous perennial to 30cm high, forming a compact clump of heart-shaped leaves that are deep bronze when young, maturing to green. Produces sprays of deep purplish-pink flowers, with outer sepals tinted white at the tips, on arching stems above the foliage in spring.
About the genus
Epimedium are rhizomatous perennials with evergreen or deciduous, ternately or pinnately divided leaves, and open sprays of small, bowl-shaped flowers, often with prominent spurs, in mid to late spring
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial or dappled shade, with shelter from cold, drying winds. Protect with winter mulch in colder areas. Ideal woodland plant
PruningClip back old stems in late winter before new growth begins
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, by division in autumn, or by root cuttings. Cuttings of rhizomes should be rooted under glass in winter and planted out in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to mosaic virus diseases