About
Epimedium × versicolor 'Versicolor' is a member of the genus Epimedium in the family Berberidaceae that flowers from April to June. It is sold under the Epimedium name and should be treated according to the specific guidance from the nursery. Confirm site, soil and light preferences for the cultivar before planting. Expect flowering to occur in the April–June window in UK gardens.
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 'Versicolor' belongs to the genus Epimedium within the Berberidaceae family and produces its flowers in the UK between April and June. Plants offered under this name are best assessed by the supplier label: that label will state the cultivar’s particular soil, light and planting requirements, and whether the stock is young or established. When preparing to plant, follow standard planting practice used for container-grown perennials: site selection should reflect the nursery’s guidance, plant at the same depth as in the pot, firm the soil and water in. Check the grower’s notes for any recommendations on mulching or winter protection that apply to this cultivar rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all approach. Use Epimedium × versicolor 'Versicolor' where a spring display between April and June will be appreciated; this flowering period is the reliable cue for assessing the plant’s performance. If you are unsure about a cultivar’s demands for a particular spot in your garden, request written care details from the nursery before purchase so the planting matches the listed requirements. Its flowers should be evident during the April–June period on specimens labelled Epimedium × versicolor 'Versicolor'.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Epimedium genus
- Epimedium grandiflorumlarge-flowered barrenwort
- Epimedium grandiflorum 'Rose Queen'barrenwort 'Rose Queen'
- Epimedium grandiflorum 'Violaceum'violet-flowered barrenwort
- Epimedium perralderianumPerraudière's barrenwort
- Epimedium × perralchicumbarrenwort
- Epimedium × versicolorbarrenwort
- Epimedium × warleyenseWarley epimedium
- Epimedium × youngianumYoung's barrenwort
