perennial

Bicolor Barrenwort

Epimedium x versicolor 'Neosulphureum'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A semi-evergreen, rhizomatous perennial that forms a dense mound of heart-shaped leaflets, which are tinged with bronze-red in spring before maturing to green. This cultivar is prized for its delicate, spurred, soft sulfur-yellow flowers held on wiry stems above the foliage. It is an excellent groundcover for shady areas and is deer and rabbit resistant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate, purple blooms in early spring, adding refined beauty to shaded areas.

Suppresses weeds with dense foliage, prevents soil erosion on slopes.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies during spring.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years for best growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, shaded or partially shaded areas for best performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenErosion control on slopesUnderplanting shade trees

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bicolor Barrenwort questions

What zones can Bicolor Barrenwort grow in?

Bicolor Barrenwort is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bicolor Barrenwort deer resistant?

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

When does Bicolor Barrenwort bloom?

Bicolor Barrenwort 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 Bicolor Barrenwort need full sun?

Bicolor Barrenwort does best in part shade.

Is Bicolor Barrenwort drought tolerant?

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