Epimedium rubrum is a graceful and adaptable perennial with striking two toned foliage and airy red and yellow spring flowers. Its heart shaped leaves emerge with a red flush, mature to green, and often take on bronze tones in fall, offering multi season visual interest.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist but well drained humus rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High
NATIVE STATUS
Originates from Europe and western Asia and has been widely adopted in shade gardening for its resilience, ornamental foliage, and tolerance of dry conditions.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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An important early nectar source for small native bees and bumblebees when few other flowers are blooming in spring.
Other Insects
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Flowers attract beneficial early pollinators such as hoverflies which forage in woodland understory environments.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart to allow for slow spreading clump formation and full foliage display.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for dry shade borders under trees shady slopes and woodland edges where colorful foliage and reliable coverage are needed. Excellent choice for softening paths and pairing with other textured shade plants.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss) - Adds bold leaves and blue spring flowers to contrast Epimedium's fine blooms.
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Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Offers native compatibility and soft white bloom spikes in shade.
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Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s Seal) - Brings elegant arching form and thrives in similar woodland conditions.
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Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Low growing native grasslike plant that complements Epimedium texture.
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Helleborus x hybridus (Lenten Rose) - Adds evergreen interest and blooms in late winter before Epimedium flowers appear.