Epimedium × rubrum (Red Barrenwort)
One of the best Epimediums available, Epimedium × rubrum (Red Barrenwort) is a deciduous, rhizomatous perennial with attractive, heart-shaped, pointed leaves that emerge red-flushed in spring, mature to shiny green and turn red in fall. In mid to late spring, clouds of small, dainty flowers, 1 in. across (2 cm), hover on the ends of wiry stems just above the foliage. Slightly spurred, their large rosy-red sepals cover snowy-white petals and contrast nicely with the creamy-yellow stamens.
One of the best Epimediums available, Epimedium × rubrum (Red Barrenwort) is a deciduous, rhizomatous perennial with attractive, heart-shaped, pointed leaves that emerge red-flushed in spring, mature to shiny green and turn red in fall. In mid to late spring, clouds of small, dainty flowers, 1 in. across (2 cm), hover on the ends of wiry stems just above the foliage. Slightly spurred, their large rosy-red sepals cover snowy-white petals and contrast nicely with the creamy-yellow stamens. A tough and durable groundcover or edger for shady garden spots.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Grows up to 15 in. tall (37 cm) and 24 in. wide (60 cm). Rhizomatous perennial which spreads faster than most other epimediums.
- Performs best in part shade to full shade in average, 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.
- No serious pest and disease problems. Watch for vine weevils. Rabbit and deer tolerant.
- Easy to grow, this plant is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, rock gardens, shade gardens. 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 | 4 – 8 |
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Heat Zones | 1 – 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 | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Rabbit, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
Garden Uses | Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden |