Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' RHS AGM

Epimedium × versicolor ‘Sulphureum’ is a classic, much-loved barrenwort that brings effortless brightness to shady corners. Reaching 25–35 cm tall, it forms a neat, slowly spreading clump of heart-shaped leaves that emerge in spring tinged with bronze and red, turning fresh green as the season settles. In mid-spring, it produces clouds of soft, sulphur-yellow flowers on slender stems.

It thrives in partial to full shade, preferring moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and is famously tolerant of dry shadeonce established. Low-maintenance, reliable, and evergreen in mild areas, it’s a staple for woodland and underplanting schemes.

Interesting fact: ‘Sulphureum’ is one of the oldest cultivars in the Epimedium world, cherished for more than a century — a testament to the enduring appeal of its sunny spring display.

Awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (RHS AGM).

Plant photo credit: Maja Dumat, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons