Epimedium × perralchicum

RHS Plant Profile
barrenwort
Herbaceous Perennial

An evergreen perennial to 40cm in height, forming a mat of leaves divided into 3-5 spiny-edged, ovate leaflets. Open sprays of bright yellow flowers 15mm in width

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Berberidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Epimedium are rhizomatous perennials with evergreen or deciduous, ternately or pinnately divided leaves, and open sprays of small, bowl-shaped flowers, often with prominent spurs, in mid to late spring
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade; shelter from cold, dry winds. Can tolerate some sun if soil remains moist.

Propagation

Propagate by division in autumn or after flowering

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Rock garden
  • Banks and slopes
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Foliage is truly evergreen so no need to cut back

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus