Barrenwort Epimedium x perralchicum Play pronunciation

Barrenwort is an artificial cross of Epimedium peralderianum x Epimedium pinnatum subsp. colchium. It is a clump-forming, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial, evergreen ground cover in the barberry family (Berberidaceae). It grows 0.5 to 1 foot tall and from 1 to 1.5 feet wide and has clusters of buttery-yellow blooms in the spring that appear on green leafless stems. Its heart-shaped, glossy, dark evergreen foliage is bronze-mottled in spring and fall, transitioning to green in summer. It forms a dense ground cover that will help block weed growth. This hybrid is more hardy and vigorous than its parent, E. peralderianum.

 It prefers partial to full shade and does well in a variety of moist, well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established. Before flowering in the spring, remove the dead leaves. The plant may be propagated by division in the fall or after blooming. 

The origin of its common names, bishop's hat and bishop's mitre, derives from the resemblance of its flowers to a square cap with 4 peaks worn by clergy, which is known as a biretta. The common name barrenwort references the root extract of this plant, which was thought to prevent conception.

Use as an attractive evergreen groundcover in heavily shaded areas, including shady borders, along walkways, naturalized areas, woodland areas, or under trees.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Has no serious insect or disease problems.   Occasionally, it may be visited by vine weevils, snails, or slugs. The mosaic virus may be transmitted to this plant by aphids. Monitor for leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.