Being of the belief that Epimediums are some of the best plants for dry shade I have now come to the conclusion that Epimedium wushanense “Spiny Leafed Form” is my favourite of all of them.
The thing about this species is that for us it is evergreen, although not strictly so. It does die back a little in winter, however the new foliage makes this temporary drawback worthwhile.
The new leaves emerge a glossy coppery red, subdued but brilliant before turning to green. The rather typical yellow flowers are an attraction, however it is really the foliage that makes this such a great plant year round.
The flowers are an added attraction, pale lemon yellow with spurs, the form in dense clusters for an Epimedium amongst the foliage and can be just a little hidden.
We do grow this for the foliage, eye-catching.
Epimedium wushanense Care
Try a humus rich soil that has some well rotted manure dug well in. Epimedium rhizomatosum will do well in poorer soils, but will do a lot better in a good soil. Dappled shade, or morning sun and afternoon shade is best.
Old foliage can be cut back in spring to tidy up the plant. Larger clumps can be divided in fall, or in early spring.
Varieties
Also available is Epimedium wushanense ‘nova’, similar plant with creamy white flowers.
Other Varieties.
- Epimedium sagittatum.
- Epimedium grandiflorum ‘White Queen’.
- Epimedium x versicolor ‘Sulphureum’ .
- Epimedium diphyllum
- Epimedium franchetti
- Epimedium koreanum
- Epimedium x perralchicum ‘Frohnleiten’
- Epimedium rhizomatosum
- Epimedium x rubrum (red barrenwort)
- Epimedium x warleyense
- Epimedium youngianum ‘Niveum’
- Epimedium x versicolor ‘Cherry Tart’
- Epimedium wushanense
Where to buy
GARDEN VISION EPIMEDIUMS – phone 978-249-3863
P.O. Box 50 Templeton, MA 01468-0050
email – gvepimediums@gmail.com
Best selection of Epimedium species/varieties in the U.S. along with a selection of other choice, hard to find shade perennials.
DIGGING DOG NURSERY
PO Box 471 Albion CA 95410 – phone (707) 937-1130
A spectacular selection of hard to find perennials, ornamental grasses, shrubs, trees and vines for your garden. Includes: epimedium frohnleiten, epimedium perralderianum, epimedium grandiflorum.
