Barrenwort (Epimedium grandiflorum, Hort. Belge 2: 141 (1834))

Family: Berberidaceae

Author: C.Morren

Bibliography: Hort. Belge 2: 141 (1834)

Year: 1834

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Epimedium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Japan (W. Honshu)

Description

Barrenwort, scientifically known as Epimedium grandiflorum, is a captivating perennial plant that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. Native to the western regions of Honshu in Japan, this plant is renowned for its ornamental appeal and resilience in garden settings.

First introduced to botanical literature by C. Morren in the early 19th century, Barrenwort was documented in Hort. Belge in 1834. Since then, it has garnered attention for its unique adaptability and charming appearance.

The plant thrives in shaded woodland environments, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add interest to under-canopy areas. Barrenwort features distinctively heart-shaped leaves that often emerge with a reddish tinge in spring, maturing to a vibrant green. As autumn approaches, the foliage may turn to hues of bronze or red, adding a multi-seasonal interest.

One of Barrenwort’s most alluring aspects is its delicate flowers. Blooming in early spring, the fairy-like blooms dangle from wiry stems above the foliage. Depending on the cultivar, the flowers can range in color from pure white to various shades of pink and lavender, sometimes even exhibiting a rich, deep purple.

Epimedium grandiflorum is not only appreciated for its aesthetic qualities but also for its low-maintenance requirements. It is particularly resistant to pests and diseases and can tolerate periods of drought once established. Additionally, its ability to form dense ground cover makes it a natural weed suppressant, contributing further to its value in garden landscapes.

In summary, Barrenwort is a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden, offering enchanting blooms and hardy foliage that can brighten up shaded areas. Its enduring appeal and easy-care nature make it a favored choice among horticulturists and garden enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: barrenwort
Fra: fleur des elfes à grande fleurs
Deu: großblütige sockenblume
Swe: japansk sockblomma
Nob: storbispelue
Nno: storbispeluve
En: Barrenwort
Fr: Fleur des elfes à grande fleurs
De: Großblütige Sockenblume
Nb: Storbispelue
Nn: Storbispeluve
Sv: Japansk sockblomma

Synonyms

Distribution

• Japan (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Apr 26, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 24, 2022 by Werner Rom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 5, 2022 by Todd Allen (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 15, 2021 by Zoya (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2022 by Bianca Goldberg (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Apr 24, 2022 by Werner Rom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2022 by prissy frank (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 5, 2022 by Todd Allen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2022 by Bianca Goldberg (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 15, 2021 by Zoya (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7300218)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:107279-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epimedium grandiflorum C.Morren)

Specifications

Growth