Epimedium × versicolor (barrenwort) — perennial

Overview

Epimedium × versicolor is a perennial in the genus Epimedium, part of the Berberidaceae family. Epimedium × versicolor grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and humus-rich soils and neutral and acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include groundcover and woodland garden.

About

Epimedium × versicolor is a perennial in the barberry family (Berberidaceae) valued as a shade ground cover. It flowers in the UK from April to June. The plant performs best in partial shade to full shade in well-drained, humus-rich soil that is neutral to acidic and kept moist. It is classed as hardy (H5) in UK conditions.

About the genus

Epimedium, also known as barrenwort, bishop's hat, fairy wings, horny goat weed, or yin yang huo, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Berberidaceae. The majority of the species are endemic to China, with smaller numbers elsewhere in Asia and a few in the Mediterranean region.

Wikipedia contributors, "Epimedium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Epimedium

In the garden

Epimedium × versicolor sits within a genus largely native to Asia and is one of the hardy perennial barrenworts grown for spring display and ground cover value. Like other Epimedium species, it arises from an underground rhizome and produces its seasonal growth from that crown. The flowering window in the UK runs April to June. Plant it where summer sun is limited: partial shade to full shade suits it best. Use a humus-rich, well-drained soil with neutral to acidic pH and keep the rootzone consistently moist without waterlogging. Its H5 rating means it is hardy outdoors through normal UK winters; place it where soil conditions and shade meet, rather than in hot, dry spots. Epimedium × versicolor works well beneath trees and shrubs or as an underplanting in a woodland-style border where it can form a low mat to suppress weeds. Sit it close to paths or seating so the April–June flowers can be seen at close range, and choose positions where the soil remains quietly moist and enriched with organic matter.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Epimedium

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: well-drained, humus-rich
Soil pH: neutral, acidic
Soil moisture: moist
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Epimedium × versicolor size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: groundcover, woodland garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Epimedium × versicolor

Cultivation: Prefers sheltered position in partial to full shade; keep soil moist and well-drained; mulch in winter
Pruning: Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth appears
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow