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Key characteristics

Family: Berberidaceae
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Flower color: Warm yellow, with variations of orange or red
Foliage color: Bronzy in spring, maturing to medium green, with reddish hues in autumn
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Partial to full shade
Water: Moist, well-draining soil; drought tolerant once established
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Generally not a significant attractor of wildlife

Groundcovers

Epimedium x perralchicum ‘Frohnleiten’

Frohnleiten Barrenwort

Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten' is a lovely perennial known for its delicate beauty and exceptional hardiness. This hybrid showcases heart-shaped leaves that emerge in early spring with a bronzy tint, maturing to lush medium green, and often taking on attractive reddish hues in autumn. Its leathery, somewhat spiny foliage adds textural interest year-round. In mid to late spring, 'Frohnleiten' produces vibrant, star-shaped flowers composed of four distinct petals, typically in a warm yellow hue, held above the foliage on slender stems.

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Moist, well-draining soil; drought tolerant once established

Bloom time

Mid to late spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Woodland Gardens
Under Trees
Borders
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Ferns · Japanese forest grass · Trilliums · Siberian buglosses · Primroses · Foamflowers

Design tip

Weave generous drifts through shaded planting beds to create a cohesive tapestry that naturally connects surrounding trees and shrubs. Introduce contrasting foliage sizes and staggered plant heights to build depth while maintaining an open, tranquil woodland character throughout the landscape.