Species

Epimedium grandiflorumLarge-flowered Barrenwort

12 other cultivars

perennial

Red Queen Barrenwort

Epimedium grandiflorum 'Red Queen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Epimedium grandiflorum 'Red Queen' is a perennial groundcover known for its delicate, heart-shaped foliage and charming, nodding flowers with red and white petals that bloom in early spring.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant red and white flowers that create a striking contrast, along with its vigorous growth and adaptability to shaded, woodland garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate, year-round greenery with attractive early spring flowers.

Resilient in shade, low water needs once established.

Supports pollinators and adds biodiversity to shaded gardens.

SpeciesEpimedium grandiflorumLarge-flowered Barrenwort

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, keep soil moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to encourage root development.
Plant in well-drained, shaded location for best growth.
Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, well-drained soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
Prune dead or damaged foliage in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
Refrain from fertilizing with high nitrogen fertilizers

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 borderMoonlit shaded garden bedUnderstory plant in shaded areas

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Heuchera Astilbe Tiarella

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Queen Barrenwort questions

What zones can Red Queen Barrenwort grow in?

Red Queen 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 Red Queen Barrenwort deer resistant?

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

When does Red Queen Barrenwort bloom?

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

Does Red Queen Barrenwort need full sun?

Red Queen Barrenwort does best in part shade.

Is Red Queen Barrenwort drought tolerant?

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