Epimedium × rubrum
bishops hat
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: partial shade
- Soil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained
- Rate of growth: slow
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: fully hardy
Pretty and versatile with distinctive, heart-shaped leaves and a spreading habit, epimediums bring lightness and airiness to a shady border. The young leaves of this deciduous variety are bronze-tinted and turn reddish-brown in autumn. In late spring a froth of tiny, crimson and pale yellow flowers appear, suspended on wiry stems. Slow to spread, it makes a good groundcover plant for shady areas or under deciduous trees. - Garden care: In early spring remove dead and damaged leaves before the flowers appear and apply a thick mulch of compost or well-rotted manure around the crown of the plant. Lift and divide large clumps in autumn.