Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten' is a vigorous and long lived groundcover known for its glossy evergreen foliage and cheerful yellow spring blooms. Emerging with red tinted new growth and maturing to deep green with bold veining, this cultivar brings multi seasonal interest to shaded spaces.
Height & Spread: 10 - 15 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist but well drained humus rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerant of dry shade once established
Deer Resistance: High
NATIVE STATUS
Hybrid of European origin widely cultivated for ornamental use in shaded gardens due to its resilience and attractive evergreen foliage.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Early blooming flowers provide an important nectar source for native bees and solitary spring pollinators emerging from dormancy.
Other Insects
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Supports hoverflies and other small pollinating insects active during the early spring flowering window.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
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Plant 18 - 24 in apart for effective groundcover in mass or underplanting applications.
Landscape Placement
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Perfect for dry shade under trees shady borders and woodland paths where dense ground coverage and evergreen foliage are valued. Makes an excellent edging or mass planting in challenging low light conditions.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Pulmonaria saccharata (Lungwort) - Offers spotted foliage and early blooms that complement Epimedium in shade.
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Heuchera villosa (Coral Bells) - Adds colorful foliage and thrives in dry to moist shady sites.
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Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) - Provides evergreen structure and native appeal in similar conditions.
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Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Native groundcover that mixes well with Epimedium in woodland plantings.
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Geranium macrorrhizum (Bigroot Geranium) - Tough shade perennial with aromatic foliage and long season groundcover function.