Epimedium Spine Tingler (Barrenwort)

Aptly named, Epimedium ‘Spine Tingler’ (Barrenwort) is a ground-hugging evergreen perennial with unique spiny-edged, lance-shaped leaves. Emerging bronze-pink, the narrow, toothed, glossy foliage deepens to green. In mid to late spring, open sprays of soft yellow flowers, with curving, narrow petals, hover on the ends of wiry stems, well above the foliage.

Aptly named, Epimedium 'Spine Tingler' (Barrenwort) is a ground-hugging evergreen perennial with unique spiny-edged, lance-shaped leaves. Emerging bronze-pink, the narrow, toothed, glossy foliage deepens to green. In mid to late spring, open sprays of soft yellow flowers, with curving, narrow petals, hover on the ends of wiry stems, well above the foliage. Though the flowers may only last for a few weeks, the lovely foliage will captivate interest all season long. Prized for its easy-care, durability and critter resistance, this dappled-shade loving plant is capable of surviving in dry shade. Perfect for erosion control, in shady rock gardens or planted under mature trees, this beautiful evergreen epimedium will slowly spread by creeping rhizomes to form an attractive ground cover.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 8-10 in. tall (20-25 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm).
  • Performs best in full sun, part shade or full shade in average, neutral to acidic, moist, well-drained soils. Humus-rich, fertile, moist soils in part shade are preferred. Drought tolerant once established. Protect from cold, dry winds.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for vine weevils, slugs and snails. Rabbit and deer resistant.
  • Easy to grow, this plant is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, underplanting shrubs and roses, cottage gardens or woodland gardens. Excellent as a ground cover.
  • 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

Heat Zones 2
– 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 Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 8"
– 10"
(20cm
– 25cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 18″
– 24″
(45cm
– 60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Rabbit, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil
Garden Uses Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage