Epimedium - Barrenwort

This rarely used spring flowering perennial is starting to gain in popularity with no surprise since it gives gardeners another option for the shady or woodland areas of the landscape with the added benefit of being deer and rabbit resistant. Barrenwort or Epimedium will add a whimsical texture to even the darkest spots in the garden. The fairy-like flowers, in shades of cream, yellow or pink, hang from thin stems above heart shaped to lance-like foliage in mid to late spring. Although it prefers rich, moist, woodland soils, Barrenwort will adapt to many soil conditions including dry shade. Rhizomes spread underground to form large clumps which makes Barrenwort a great shade ground cover.