Overview
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' is a clump forming 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 5-10 years. Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include ground cover, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds.
About
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial cultivar of the Epimedium genus, commonly known as snowy barrenwort. This deciduous plant grows to a height and spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 5 to 10 years. It thrives in partial shade with a preference for west- or east-facing, sheltered positions. Suitable for clay, loam, or sand soils that are moist but well-drained and range from acid to neutral pH, it is a low-maintenance choice that provides interest in both spring and winter.
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
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Epimedium
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Ground cover, Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum'
- Cultivation
- Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soil types and pH levels. Low maintenance once established.
- Pruning
- Remove old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain plant health and appearance.
- Propagation
- Division in autumn or after flowering
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil
- Disease resistance
- Virus diseases
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum'?
Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soil types and pH levels. Low maintenance once established.
Where is the best place to plant Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum'?
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' need?
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum'?
Remove old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain plant health and appearance.
How big does Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' grow?
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' hardy in the UK?
Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum'?
Division in autumn or after flowering.
More in the Epimedium genus
- Epimedium perralderianumPerraudière's barrenwort
- Epimedium × perralchicumbarrenwort

- Epimedium × versicolorbarrenwort
- Epimedium × versicolor 'Versicolor'Barrenwort
- Epimedium × warleyenseWarley epimedium

- Epimedium × youngianumYoung's barrenwort

- Epimedium x perr. 'Frohnleiten'Barrenwort
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