Epimedium davidii - Barrenwort

Epimedium davidii, also known as David's Epimedium, is a fairy flower which is fairly rare in cultivation and comes to us from the mountainous forests of China. In spring, its yellow columbine flowers appear, perfectly highlighted by foliage which is almost mahogany, at that time of year. This rhizomatous perennial forms small, slightly creeping clumps in shaded and cool areas, in humus-rich soil.

Small undershrubs with evergreen foliage or deciduous perennials with delicate flowers. These very beautiful shade plants can be grown in a border or a large shaded rock garden, preferably along a path to fully enjoy their great beauty. All Epimediums tolerate temperatures down to -12°C (10.4°F), -13°C (8.6°F) without any protection. Western species that are very cold-resistant tolerate difficult conditions, such as living in dense shade under trees, in very dry soil, or in wet clay soil. Asian species, such as Epimedium davidii, prefer a soil that remains moist to wet in summer, well-drained, rich in humus, without limestone, and also tolerate dense shade. All grow relatively slowly but live for many years without any special care.