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 H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include rock garden.
About
Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' is an evergreen perennial that reaches a height of up to 35 cm. It develops a dense clump of light green foliage with a reddish hue. The plant produces primrose-yellow blossoms, each measuring around 2 cm across, which are arranged in open clusters.
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
- 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
- H7
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
- Rock garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade; shelter from cold, dry winds. Can tolerate full sun, full shade or slightly drier soils
- Pruning
- Pruning is unnecessary. Evergreen foliage can be sheared over in early spring to tidy old leaves and show off the flowers but in cold gardens this may expose new growth to frost damage
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in autumn or after flowering
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to vine weevils
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a virus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'?
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade; shelter from cold, dry winds. Can tolerate full sun, full shade or slightly drier soils.
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 do I prune Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'?
Pruning is unnecessary. Evergreen foliage can be sheared over in early spring to tidy old leaves and show off the flowers but in cold gardens this may expose new growth to frost damage.
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 a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'?
Propagate by division in autumn or after flowering.