Overview

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' 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 versicolor 'Sulphureum' grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include underplanting of roses and shrubs, flower borders and beds and ground cover.

About

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' (barrenwort 'Sulphureum') is a spreading branched herbaceous perennial in the Berberidaceae family. It is a deciduous plant that grows to between 0.1 and 0.5 metres in height and spread, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This cultivar thrives in a variety of light conditions, from full shade to full sun, and prefers sheltered positions with moist but well-drained or well-drained soils, including chalk, loam, and sand with acid to neutral pH. It is of interest in both spring and winter seasons.

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 4.0Epimedium

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Epimedium

Sunlight
Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' 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
Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'

Propagation
Division in autumn or after flowering
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'?

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' need?

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' 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 to well-drained.

How big does Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' grow?

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' 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 versicolor 'Sulphureum' hardy in the UK?

Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'?

Division in autumn or after flowering.

More in the Epimedium genus

Browse all Epimedium

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