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Description
Epimedium Leptorrhizum, commonly known as Fairy Wings or Horny Goat Weed, is a species of flowering plant that is native to China. It belongs to the Berberidaceae family and is a herbaceous perennial. It is a clump-forming plant that grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. It has heart-shaped leaves that are light green in color and have reddish edges. The flowers bloom in spring and are yellow in color. They are small and bell-shaped and are held above the foliage on wiry stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Epimedium |
Appearance
Epimedium Leptorrhizum is a clump-forming plant that grows up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. It has heart-shaped leaves that are light green in color and have reddish edges. The leaves are about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers bloom in spring and are yellow in color. They are small and bell-shaped and are held above the foliage on wiry stems. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Epimedium Leptorrhizum is easy to care for and does not require much attention. Here are some care tips:
Water: Fairy Wings prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, do not overwater it as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fairy Wings does not require much fertilizer. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote growth.
Soil: Fairy Wings prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: Fairy Wings prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but it should be protected from the hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Fairy Wings is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epimedium Leptorrhizum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slugs and snails. To prevent them, you can use slug bait or copper strips around the plant. If you notice any leaf spot or powdery mildew, you can apply a fungicide.
Habitat
Epimedium Leptorrhizum is native to China and can be found in the provinces of Anhui, Henan, Hubei, Shaanxi, and Sichuan. It grows in moist, shady areas in forests, on rocky slopes, and in valleys.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epimedium Leptorrhizum poisonous?
A: No, Epimedium Leptorrhizum is not poisonous. In fact, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its health benefits.
Q: Can Epimedium Leptorrhizum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Epimedium Leptorrhizum can be grown in containers. Make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and place it in a shaded area.
Q: Does Epimedium Leptorrhizum attract bees?
A: Yes, Epimedium Leptorrhizum attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I divide Epimedium Leptorrhizum?
A: You can divide Epimedium Leptorrhizum every 3 to 4 years in spring or fall. This will help to rejuvenate the plant and promote growth.
Related Plants
- Epimedium grandiflorum
- Epimedium diphyllum
- Epimedium pinnatum
- Epimedium sagittatum
References
- “Epimedium leptorrhizum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282376.
- “Epimedium leptorrhizum.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/epimedium-leptorrhizum.
- “Epimedium leptorrhizum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/27491/Epimedium-leptorrhizum/Details.
