Epimedium ( Barrenwort )

Epimedium is a low growing, deciduous perennial with leathery leaves, to 1 foot long, spreading by underground stems. New foliage is bronzy pink, dark green in summer and bronze in the fall. The flowers are 1 to 2 inches wide, resemble a bishop’s hat, pendent, have long spurs, and come in purple, pink, yellow or white. Spring flowering. A very useful groundcover that can be planted under surface-rooted trees, and used as an underplanting for rhododendrons and camellias in part shade. Several cultivars are available.


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Characteristics

Cultivar: n/a  
Family: Berberidaceae  
Size: Height: 0.67 ft. to 1 ft.
Width: 0.67 ft. to 1 ft.  
Plant Category: ground covers, perennials,  
Plant Characteristics:  
Foliage Characteristics: deciduous, evergreen,  
Flower Characteristics: nodding,  
Flower Color: pinks, whites, yellows,  
Tolerances:  


Requirements


Bloomtime Range: Mid Spring to Late Spring  
USDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8  
AHS Heat Zone: Not defined for this plant  
Light Range: Deep Shade to Part Shade  
pH Range: 4.5 to 7  
Soil Range: Sandy Loam to Some Clay  
Water Range: Normal to Moist  





Plant Care

Fertilizing

How-to : Fertilization for Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials may be fertilized using: 1.water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; or 3. organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are generally used every two weeks during the growing season or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are worked into the soil ususally only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, follow label directions as they may vary per product.

Light

Conditions : Partial Shade

Partial Shade is defined as filtered light found beneath trees with high limbs. Partial shade usually offers some protection from direct afternoon sun.

Watering

Conditions : Moist and Well Drained

Moist and well drained means exactly what it sounds like. Soil is moist without being soggy because the texture of the soil allows excess moisture to drain away. Most plants like about 1 inch of water per week. Amending your soil with compost will help improve texture and water holding or draining capacity. A 3 inch layer of mulch will help to maintain soil moisture and studies have shown that mulched plants grow faster than non-mulched plants.

Planting

How-to : Planting Perennials

Determine appropriate perennials for your garden by considering sun and shade through the day, exposure, water requirements, climate, soil makeup, seasonal color desired, and position of other garden plants and trees.

The best times to plant are spring and fall, when soil is workable and out of danger of frost. Fall plantings have the advantage that roots can develop and not have to compete with developing top growth as in the spring. Spring is more desirable for perennials that dislike wet conditions or for colder areas, allowing full establishment before first winter. Planting in summer or winter is not advisable for most plants, unless planting a more established sized plant.

To plant container-grown plants: Prepare planting holes with appropriate depth and space between. Water the plant thoroughly and let the excess water drain before carefully removing from the container. Carefully loosen the root ball and place the plant in the hole, working soil around the roots as you fill. If the plant is extremely root bound, separate roots with fingers. A few slits made with a pocket knife are okay, but should be kept to a minimum. Continue filling in soil and water thoroughly, protecting from direct sun until stable.

To plant bare-root plants: Plant as soon as possible after purchase. Prepare suitable planting holes, spread roots and work soil among roots as you fill in. Water well and protect from direct sun until stable.

To plant seedlings: A number of perennials produce self-sown seedlings that can be transplanted. You may also start your own seedling bed for transplanting. Prepare suitable planting holes, spacing appropriately for plant development. Gently lift the seedling and as much surrounding soil as possible with your garden trowel, and replant it immediately, firming soil with fingertips and water well. Shade from direct sun and water regularly until stable.

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