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Description
Epimedium Sempervirens, also known as barrenwort, bishop’s hat, or fairy wings, is a hardy perennial plant native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the family Berberidaceae and is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Epimedium |
Appearance
Epimedium Sempervirens has heart-shaped leaves that are green or reddish in color and can be up to 3 inches long. The leaves are evergreen, which means they remain on the plant year-round. The plant also produces delicate flowers that are typically pink, purple, or white in color and bloom in the spring. The flowers are held on thin stems that rise above the foliage and can be up to 8 inches tall.
Care Guide
Epimedium Sempervirens is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Epimedium Sempervirens prefers well-drained soil, so be careful not to overwater. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix.
- Soil: Epimedium Sempervirens prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial to full shade, although it can tolerate some sun if the soil is kept moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Epimedium Sempervirens can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epimedium Sempervirens is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to slugs and snails. To prevent these pests, keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris. If you notice any damage from pests, remove them by hand or use an organic pesticide. The plant can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Epimedium Sempervirens is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in forested areas and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epimedium Sempervirens deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant due to its bitter taste.
Q: Can Epimedium Sempervirens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to too much sun.
Q: When should Epimedium Sempervirens be divided?
A: This plant should be divided in the fall after it has finished blooming.
Q: Can Epimedium Sempervirens be grown as a groundcover?
A: Yes, this plant can be used as a groundcover due to its spreading habit and evergreen foliage.
Related Plants
- Epimedium grandiflorum
- Epimedium pinnatum
- Epimedium x versicolor
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Epimedium Sempervirens. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m780
- RHS. (2021). Epimedium. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/popular/epimedium
- University of Illinois Extension. (2021). Barrenwort (Epimedium spp.). Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/barrenwort-epimedium-spp
