Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Epimedium x rubrum
Red Barrenwort
- Family
- Berberidaceae
- Height
- 10 to 14 in
- Width
- 18 to 24 in
- Flower color
- Bright pink-red outer sepals with pale yellow inner petals
- Foliage color
- Bronze-red in spring, maturing to medium green, often developing red tones again in fall
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture, drought tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low, cut back old foliage in late winter before new growth emerges
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees, early-season pollinators
About this plant
Epimedium × rubrum produces airy sprays of nodding flowers held above elegant, heart-shaped foliage. The blossoms display warm pinkish red outer sepals surrounding smaller creamy yellow inner petals, creating a softly layered appearance. New leaves often emerge with bronze to reddish tones before maturing to green, adding seasonal interest beyond the flowering period.
Blooming in mid to late spring, this hybrid originated from garden crosses between European and Asian species. It performs well in woodland settings, shaded borders, and beneath deciduous trees, where its spreading habit forms a graceful ground layer. The combination of colorful spring flowers and attractive foliage makes it a valued plant for naturalistic plantings.
Works well in
Woodland Gardens · Under Trees · Borders · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Hostas · Solomon's seal · Lungworts · Wild gingers · Coral bells · Lily of the valley
Design tip
Arrange broad sweeps beneath deciduous trees to soften transitions between shrubs, pathways, and larger woodland plantings. Repeat companion plants in generous clusters to create visual rhythm while allowing contrasting foliage textures to stand out throughout the growing season.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
