Also known as Barrenwort · 2.4k saves
Epimedium
Epimedium, the genus most gardeners know as barrenwort. We track 85 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Epimedium varieties
See all 85 Epimedium varieties →Search this genus →
5 species of Epimedium
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Epimedium in Sow
Save the Epimedium you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Epimedium
Whats common across all Epimedium varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Epimedium year
- DivideAugust and September100% of varieties
Divide clumps every 5-10 years if vigor declines or for propagation.
- MulchMarch93% of varieties
Refresh mulch to retain moisture in dry shade conditions.
- Spring CleanupJanuary and February65% of varieties
Cut back old foliage before new growth appears to showcase flowers
- PlantMarch, April, September and October50% of varieties
Plant rhizomes in well-drained, shaded location
- PruneJanuary and February35% of varieties
Cut back old, tattered foliage before new growth and flowers emerge.
- FertilizeMarch30% of varieties
Light application of balanced fertilizer or compost as new growth starts.
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
What goes wrong with Epimedium
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue on leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Chewed foliage | Use organic slug bait |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Slugs and snails | Chewed leaves and ragged edges | Use organic slug bait or handpick pests |
| Root rot | Wilting, yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Leaf spot | Spotted or discolored leaves | Remove affected leaves and ensure good air circulation |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if needed |
Making more Epimedium
Division
- Dig up mature clumps in early spring.
- Gently divide into smaller sections.
- Replant immediately in shaded, moist soil.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Seed
- Collect seeds after flowering.
- Sow in seed-starting mix in early spring.
- Keep soil moist and place in shaded area.
- Germination occurs in 4–6 weeks.
Epimedium questions
How many types of Epimedium are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 85 distinct Epimedium varieties. The most popular — ranked by 2.4k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Epimedium grow in?
Across its varieties, Epimedium covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Epimedium bloom?
Most Epimedium varieties bloom in early spring, mid-spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Epimedium should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.