Also known as epimedium, barrenwort is a tough groundcover that thrives in shady conditions.
Although barrenwort may look delicate, it is anything but fragile.
Dainty, columbine-like flowers in a wide range of colors emerge in early spring.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
This plant makes for a wonderful groundcover in shady areas and tolerates root competition beneath trees and shrubs.
Barrenwort grows via rhizomesunderground stems that send out roots and shoots.
Barrenwort plants prefer well-draining, acidic soil that boasts plenty of nutrients.
Credit: Andy Lyons
In fact, many consider barrenwort to be a plant that thrives on a bit of neglect.
That said, planting it inpartial shaderesults in brighter colors and a greater number of blossoms.
Avoid placing it in areas with intense late afternoon sun as it can burn the foliage.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Barrenwort is considereddrought tolerant, but young plants will need consistent watering as they get established.
Beyond that, the plant does not need to be fed with chemical fertilizer.
Doing this will result in more lush, dense growth and vibrant colors.
Credit: Bob Stefko
Mosaic virus can occasionally be an issue, leading to yellowing foliage or mottling patterns on the leaves.
Deer and rabbits will likely avoid barrenwort, but vine weevils andslugs may appear periodically.
Other hybrids feature intriguingly mottled foliage or bicolor blooms.
Credit: Richard Hirneisen
‘Sulphureum’ Bicolor Barrenwort
Epimediumxversicolor’Sulphureum' haswhitish bloomswith a yellow center.
Its evergreen foliage grows 8-12 inches tall in Zones 5-9.
Red Barrenwort
Epimedium rubrumfoliage is red along the edges and has rosy undertones.
Credit: Mike Jensen
Its color intensifies where it receives ample sun before trees become lush with leaves in spring.
It is hardy in Zones 4-9.
It grows 1 foot tall in Zones 5-8.
Credit: Justin Hancock
Like barrenwort, they do best in the shade where soil remains moist.
Depending on the variety, some prefer acid or alkaline conditions.
Columbine thrives in sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil.
Credit: Illustration by Gary Palmer
Plants tend to be short-lived but self-seed readily, often creating natural hybrids with other nearby columbines.
If you want to prevent self-seeding, deadhead plants after bloom.
It produces jewel-tone, saucer-shaped blooms, and mounds of handsome, lobed foliage.
Credit: Illustration by Mavis Augustine Torke
Many of the best are hybrids.
Perennial geraniums may form large colonies.
A lush groundcover,creeping thyme, helps slow down water that might otherwise be lost on the incline.
Credit: Illustration by Mavis Augustine Torke
Frequently Asked Questions
Divide your barrenwort every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor.
