Hero

My Garden

Epimedium grandiflorum
large-flowered barrenwort
Epimedium grandiflorum
Epimedium grandiflorum, also known as Bishop's Hat or Fairy Wings, is a rhizomatous perennial plant prized for its delicate flowers and attractive foliage. It typically grows 1-2 feet tall and wide, forming clumps. The flowers are spurred and come in various colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. The foliage is heart-shaped and turns reddish-bronze in the fall. It thrives in partial to full shade and prefers well-drained soil.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan10 years lifespan
Sun Requirements2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
Watering Requirements

Method: Water at the base of the plant.

Frequency: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.

Notes: Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Maintenance: Provide good air circulation and avoid overly humid conditions.

Care InstructionsCut back old foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and flowering. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Range

Min: -20°C

Max: 30°C

Alternative Namesbishop's hat
Asarum canadense
Canadian wild ginger
Asarum canadense
Wild Ginger offers complementary foliage and thrives in similar shady, moist conditions.
Lysimachia nummularia
creeping Jenny
Lysimachia nummularia

Creeping Jenny is a vigorous groundcover that can outcompete Epimedium for resources like sunlight and nutrients.

Aegopodium podagraria
Goutweed
Aegopodium podagraria

Ground Elder is a fast-spreading, aggressive plant that can quickly overtake Epimedium.

Vine Weevils

Vine weevils are a common pest of Epimedium. The larvae feed on the roots, while adults chew notches in the leaves. Symptoms include wilting, stunted growth, and notched leaves.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are attracted to the foliage and can cause significant damage by eating leaves. Symptoms are irregular holes in leaves.

Steps:

    • Dig up the clump in early spring or after flowering in the fall.
    • Gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has healthy roots and foliage.
    • Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant, spacing them according to the desired density.
    • Water thoroughly after planting.

Neem Oil

Effective in controlling vine weevils and other pests.

Slug and Snail Bait (Iron Phosphate)

Used to control slugs and snails, which can damage the foliage.