Epimedium Barrenwort

Barrenwort has luxuriant, dark green leaves and pretty yellow flowers. Despite its dreary name, it is a valuable addition to the garden with the bright flowers opening in big numbers well above the leaves.

Epimedium pinnatum subsp. colchicum holds the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit. It makes a great ornamental ground cover and weed suppressor for shady zones.

Epimediums are good for planting beneath trees, in shaded borders, as shady ground covers or in pots.

Epimediums are clump forming rhizomatous perennials native to woodland areas. They grow best in moist, humus rich, sandy soils. They are unlikely to thrive in alkaline conditions. Plant in a part shade to bright light position.

Fertilise and mulch Epimediums in winter, they love the soil to be rich in composting leaves so don't hold back when they fall in autumn. Divide every 3-5 years and protect new foliage from slugs and snails, that is pretty much it.

It is a good idea to cut back your Epimedium foliage late winter or spring, to allow the new leaves and flowers to shine. Just as you would a Hellebore or Winter Rose.