Epimedium fargesii White Constellation - Barrenwort

Native to Asia and Europe, extending to North Africa, epimediums are excellent ground covers for shade. Western species, which are more tolerant but less showy in terms of flowers, can withstand growing conditions such as dry shade and heavy or calcareous soils. Asian species, which are more aesthetically pleasing, prefer moist soils, especially in summer, and thrive in shaded areas.

Flowering occurs from March for the earliest species to June for the latest. More than 90% of the species have evergreen foliage, which regenerates in spring, giving way to young decorative foliage often streaked or marbled with brown, copper, or red depending on the varieties.

Epimedium fargesii 'White Constellation' originates from China and has asymmetrical leaves, sagittate like a dagger, and adorned with fine decorative thorns that are soft to the touch. It has a bushy habit, reaching a height of 50cm (20in) and a width of 30cm (12in).

In spring, the plant is covered in a myriad of flowers with dark purple petals and candy pink star-shaped sepals. This is a beautiful perennial plant to combine with Tiarella wherryi, Heuchera 'Georgia Peach', or ornamental ferns.