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

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