Epimedium Franchett's Fairy Wings

A robust, evergreen plant that forms the most amazing groundcover in dry shade. The new spring, serrated leaves have a red blush before growing large and maturing to mid green. In springtime it is topped with narrow, branching stems of primrose yellow flowers. It blooms for quite a long time, from early spring right into summer.

This species originated in the Guizhou and Hubei provinces of China and requires a little more moisture than most Epimedium. It is really easy to grow and rather rewarding too.

Epimediums are surprisingly easy to grow and are fantastic for planting beneath trees, in shaded borders, as shady ground covers, edging plants or in pots. They are wonderful value for money, require very little care and provide a lush foliage mound and the daintiest of flowers. We cannot sing their praises highly enough!

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. They are a rare find in Australian gardens, and we think that is a bit of a shame because they are so easy and so pretty. A rare get, you should grab them while you can.

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. If you this time, the new growth will shine through in spring with fabulous marbling and streaking.

Epimediums are also known as Barrenwort, Bishop’s Hats and Horny Goat Weed.