Epimedium Akebono (Barrenwort)
Robust and long-lived, Epimedium ‘Akebono’ (Barrenwort) is a deciduous, clump-forming perennial with a lovely foliage of heart-shaped, pointed leaves flushed red when they emerge in spring. In mid to late spring, open sprays of abundant, two-tone rose flowers dance on the ends of wiry stems above the foliage. The blossoms are a delicate combination of white and palest pink sepals sitting atop long-spurred petals that are deep rose pink with snow-white tips.
Robust and long-lived, Epimedium 'Akebono' (Barrenwort) is a deciduous, clump-forming perennial with a lovely foliage of heart-shaped, pointed leaves flushed red when they emerge in spring. In mid to late spring, open sprays of abundant, two-tone rose flowers dance on the ends of wiry stems above the foliage. The blossoms are a delicate combination of white and palest pink sepals sitting atop long-spurred petals that are deep rose pink with snow-white tips. Though the flowers may only last for a few weeks, the fantastic foliage will captivate interest all season long. Perfect as a ground cover, for erosion control, in shady rock gardens, as edging, and planted under mature trees.
- Grows up to 8-15 in. tall (20-37 cm) and 15-18 in. wide (37-45 cm).
- Performs best in part shade to full shade in average, acidic, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Humus-rich, fertile, moist soils in part shade are preferred. Drought tolerant once established. Protect from cold, dry winds.
- Virtually pest and disease free. Rabbit and deer tolerant.
- Easy to grow, this plant is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, shade gardens or containers. Excellent as a groundcover.
- Propagate by division in fall or after flowering.
- Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring for the best display of new foliage and flowers.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 8 |
|---|---|
| Climate Zones | 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17 |
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Plant Family | Epimedium – Barrenworts |
| Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 8" – 2' (20cm – 60cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 15″ – 18″ (37cm – 45cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
| Garden Uses | Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |