1 named cultivar

‘Sandy Claws’Sandy Claws Barrenwort

perennial

Wushan Epimedium

The Story

Plant Bio

Epimedium wushanense is a perennial groundcover with delicate, lobed leaves and arching stems that produce clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of yellow and orange during the spring.

This species is distinguished by its striking, evergreen foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded, rocky garden conditions, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds delicate, purple-flowered accents to shaded garden areas, enhancing visual interest and texture.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture in shaded spots.

Supports beneficial insects and provides habitat in woodland gardens.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Prefers moist, well-drained soil

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity, taking 6 weeks to root.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early fall if necessary for better establishment.

Pro Tip

Provide shaded, protected spots with rich, well-drained soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter

Don't

Avoid heavy, wet soils that cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenUnderstory planting beneath treesVertical shaded border

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns AstilbeHellebores

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wushan Epimedium questions

What zones can Wushan Epimedium grow in?

Wushan 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 Wushan Epimedium deer resistant?

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

When does Wushan Epimedium bloom?

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

Does Wushan Epimedium need full sun?

Wushan Epimedium does best in part shade.

Is Wushan Epimedium drought tolerant?

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