Species

Epimedium youngianumYoung's Barrenwort

10 other cultivars

perennial

White Star Barrenwort

Epimedium youngianum 'White Star'

The Story

Plant Bio

Epimedium x youngianum 'White Star' is a deciduous perennial with delicate, heart-shaped leaves and elegant, arching stems bearing small, star-shaped white flowers in early spring.

This cultivar is distinguished by its pristine white blooms and its adaptability to shaded, woodland garden environments, offering both ornamental appeal and ground cover.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides elegant white blooms in early spring, enhances shaded garden beds with lush foliage.

Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established, ideal for shaded landscapes.

Supports beneficial insect populations and offers habitat for pollinators.

SpeciesEpimedium youngianumYoung's Barrenwort

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings with water and keep moist for 4 weeks.
Plant in partial shade to protect from harsh sun.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring for best growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded, rocky areas with well-draining soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure ❌
Do not overwater, which can cause root rot
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenRocky borderUnderstory shrub

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Heuchera Astilbe Tiarella

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Star Barrenwort questions

What zones can White Star Barrenwort grow in?

White Star Barrenwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Star Barrenwort deer resistant?

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

When does White Star Barrenwort bloom?

White Star Barrenwort typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Star Barrenwort need full sun?

White Star Barrenwort does best in part shade.

Is White Star Barrenwort drought tolerant?

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