Epimedium x rubrum 02.jpeg
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Epimedium x rubrum 02.jpeg
Epimedium x rubrum 01.jpeg
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Epimedium x rubrum | Red Barrenwort

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DESCRIPTION
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.

DESCRIPTION
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.

  • Family: Berberidaceae
    Height: 10 to 14 in
    Width: 18 to 24 in
    Foliage color: Bronze-red in spring, maturing to medium green, often developing red tones again in fall
    Flower color: Bright pink-red outer sepals with pale yellow inner petals
    Bloom time: Mid to late spring
    Light requirements: Partial shade to full shade
    Water requirements: 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 attractors: Bees, early-season pollinators

    This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.

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  • 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.