perennial

Franchet's Epimedium

Epimedium franchetii

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Epimedium franchetii is a rhizomatous, deciduous perennial forming a clump of ternately-divided, heart-shaped leaves. New spring foliage emerges with a bronze-red tint. In mid-spring, delicate, nodding, bright yellow flowers with small reddish inner sepals are borne on arching stems. This species is appreciated for its drought tolerance, attractive foliage, and early flowering period, making it a popular choice for shaded garden spots.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate, colorful foliage and flowers in shaded gardens, adding texture and visual interest.

Prevents soil erosion on shaded slopes and enriches organic matter in the soil.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies in shaded woodland habitats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into shaded, moist soil
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist
Mist cuttings to encourage root formation
Apply organic fertilizer in early spring
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Provide dappled shade and rich, well-drained soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring

Don't

Avoid waterlogging which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderUnderstory planting beneath treesCurved shaded pathways

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Heuchera Astilbe Tiarella

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Franchet's Epimedium questions

What zones can Franchet's Epimedium grow in?

Franchet's Epimedium is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Franchet's Epimedium deer resistant?

Yes — Franchet's Epimedium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Franchet's Epimedium bloom?

Franchet's Epimedium typically blooms in mid-spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Franchet's Epimedium need full sun?

Franchet's Epimedium does best in part shade.

Is Franchet's Epimedium drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Franchet's Epimedium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.