Overview
Epimedium x rubrum is a spreading branched herbaceous perennial in the genus Epimedium, part of the Berberidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Epimedium x rubrum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include rock garden.
About
Epimedium x rubrum is a deciduous perennial that typically reaches a height of up to 30 cm. Its young leaves exhibit a reddish hue, which persists into the autumn months. The flowers measure around 2 cm across and display a crimson color complemented by creamy-yellow spurs.
About the genus
Epimedium consists of rhizomatous perennial plants characterized by either evergreen or deciduous foliage that can be ternately or pinnately divided. In mid to late spring, these plants produce open clusters of small, bowl-shaped flowers, frequently featuring notable spurs.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Epimedium
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Epimedium x rubrum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Rock garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Epimedium x rubrum
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade; shelter from cold, dry winds
- Pruning
- Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring for the best display of new foliage and flowers
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in autumn or after flowering
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to vine weevil
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a virus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Epimedium x rubrum?
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade; shelter from cold, dry winds.
Where is the best place to plant Epimedium x rubrum?
Epimedium x rubrum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Epimedium x rubrum need?
Epimedium x rubrum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Epimedium x rubrum?
Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring for the best display of new foliage and flowers.
How big does Epimedium x rubrum grow?
Epimedium x rubrum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Epimedium x rubrum hardy in the UK?
Epimedium x rubrum has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Epimedium x rubrum?
Propagate by division in autumn or after flowering.