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Description
Epimedium pinnatum, commonly known as barrenwort, bishop’s hat, or fairy wings, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. This plant is native to Asia and Europe, and it is widely grown for its beautiful foliage and flowers. Epimedium pinnatum grows up to 40 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has heart-shaped leaves that are glossy and green, turning reddish-bronze in the fall. The flowers are small and have four petals, usually pink, white, yellow, or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Epimedium |
Appearance
Epimedium pinnatum has heart-shaped leaves that are glossy and green, turning reddish-bronze in the fall. The flowers are small and have four petals, usually pink, white, yellow, or purple. The plant grows up to 40 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It produces clusters of flowers that bloom in early spring, usually from March to May. The foliage is evergreen, and it remains attractive throughout the year.
Care Guide
Epimedium pinnatum is a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Epimedium pinnatum prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not soggy. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
- Soil: Epimedium pinnatum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0).
- Sunlight: Epimedium pinnatum prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but it does not do well in hot and dry conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Epimedium pinnatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epimedium pinnatum is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by spider mites, slugs, and snails. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. If the plant is infested, remove the affected leaves and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Epimedium pinnatum can also be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid watering the foliage. If the plant is infected, remove the affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Epimedium pinnatum is native to Asia and Europe, and it grows in woodland areas, rocky slopes, and meadows. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in partial shade to full shade and can tolerate cool temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epimedium pinnatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Epimedium pinnatum is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. The plant contains chemicals that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: Can Epimedium pinnatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Epimedium pinnatum can be grown in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Epimedium pinnatum?
A: You should fertilize Epimedium pinnatum once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Q: How do I propagate Epimedium pinnatum?
A: Epimedium pinnatum can be propagated by division in early spring or autumn. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has some roots and foliage. Plant the divisions in well-draining soil and water them regularly.
Related Plants
- Epimedium grandiflorum
- Epimedium x youngianum
- Epimedium diphyllum
- Epimedium rubrum
References
- “Epimedium pinnatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=289756&isprofile=0&basic=epimedium%20pinnatum
- “Epimedium pinnatum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9103/epimedium-pinnatum/details
- “Epimedium pinnatum.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/epimedium-pinnatum.html
