Barrenwort Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur' (PBR)
ABOUT
Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur', commonly known as yellow barrenwort, is a captivating plant that draws attention with its distinct foliage and delicate flowers. This variety is especially notable for its leaves, which emerge with a reddish tinge before maturing to a lush green. The leaves are heart-shaped with a slight spiky texture, giving them a unique, layered look that adds depth to any garden composition. Throughout the spring, 'Flowers of Sulphur' produces an abundant display of dainty yellow flowers. These blossoms are held aloft on slender, branching stems, hovering gracefully above the foliage like a cloud of tiny lanterns. Each flower has a captivating, intricate design with four outer petals that are often slightly cupped or reflexed, creating a charming and whimsical effect that's attractive to onlookers and pollinators alike. This yellow barrenwort is appreciated not only for its visual appeal but also its adaptability in the garden. Its foliage often takes on autumnal colors as cooler weather sets in, offering a prolonged season of interest. When planted in the ideal conditions, this plant becomes a graceful, enchanting addition, bringing a soft yet bright splash of color to shady spots in the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Berberidaceae.
Synonyms
Barrenwort, Bishop's Hat, Fairy Wings, Horny Goat Weed.
Common names
Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Epimedium, commonly known as barrenwort, is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is little information suggesting that Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur' has any significant toxic effects if ingested by humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur. If any part of the plant is ingested in large quantities, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It's always advisable to avoid eating plants not known to be safe for consumption, and to consult a medical professional if any adverse reactions are observed after handling or ingesting the plant.
To pets
Barrenwort, also known as Epimedium, is not known to be toxic to pets. The Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur' variety does not carry specific toxic risks for cats, dogs, or other household pets. It is generally considered safe, and there is no widespread documentation of pets being poisoned by this plant. If a pet were to ingest a large amount of barrenwort, the most likely result would be mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, often due to the animal's digestive system not being accustomed to processing large amounts of plant material. Always monitor your pet's behavior and consult a veterinarian if you notice unusual symptoms or if your pet appears to be in distress after consuming any plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur', also known as Barrenwort, adds visual interest to gardens with its distinctive yellow flowers.
- Ground Cover: Barrenwort serves as an excellent ground cover, spreading to fill in spaces and suppress weeds.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Barrenwort is drought tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Shade Tolerance: Barrenwort is well-suited for shady areas where other plants might struggle to thrive, such as under trees or in north-facing gardens.
- Seasonal Interest: With its spring flowers and sometimes colorful autumn foliage, Barrenwort provides multi-season interest in the garden.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers can attract pollinators such as bees, which are beneficial for the garden ecosystem.
- Hardiness: Barrenwort is generally hardy and can survive in a range of conditions, from cold winters to hot summers, depending on the variety.
- Low Maintenance: Barrenwort requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Soil Improvement: As a perennial, Barrenwort can help improve soil structure over time through its natural life cycle and decay of organic material.
- Erosion Control: Its root structure helps to stabilize soil, making it helpful in preventing soil erosion in sloped areas of the garden.
Medical Properties- Improved Libido: Traditionally used to enhance sexual function and boost libido.
- Menopausal Symptom Relief: May help alleviate symptoms related to menopause such as hot flashes and night sweats.
- Osteoporosis Prevention: Contains icariin, which is thought to be helpful in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties that may assist in reducing pain and swelling in conditions such as arthritis.
- Antioxidant Activity: Possesses flavonoids that are believed to confer antioxidant benefits, potentially protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a low ground cover plant: Epimedium can provide dense foliage, suppressing weed growth in shaded garden areas.
- For attracting beneficial insects: The blooms of Epimedium can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden, enhancing biodiversity.
- In themed gardens: Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur' can be used in fairy or woodland-themed gardens for its ethereal flower form and foliage.
- For container gardening: Due to its compact growth habit, it is suitable for planting in pots or containers to decorate patios or balconies.
- As a living mulch: The plant's foliage can act as a living mulch, retaining soil moisture and temperature, and adding organic matter as it decomposes.
- In cut flower arrangements: While not commonly used, the delicate flowers can be part of woodland-inspired floral designs.
- For garden borders: Its clumping nature makes it an excellent choice for defining the edges of garden paths or borders.
- As a textural contrast: Its heart-shaped leaves can contrast well with plants having different leaf shapes or textures in a garden setting.
- In educational gardens: Epimedium can be used to teach about plant adaptation in shaded environments such as under trees or shrubs.
- As photographic subjects: The intricate flowers and leaves can serve as interesting subjects for nature photography enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Barrenwort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Barrenwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vitality: The Epimedium, also known as "Horny Goat Weed," is often associated with vitality due to its use in traditional medicine to enhance energy and combat fatigue.
- Libido: As its common name suggests, Horny Goat Weed has a reputation for being an aphrodisiac, symbolizing an increase in sexual desire and reproductive health.
- Longevity: In traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is believed to promote longevity, symbolizing a long and healthy life.
WaterEpimediums, commonly known as barrenwort, require watering that keeps the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, typically in spring and summer, water the plant about once a week with approximately one gallon per plant, depending on the size and climate conditions. Adjust watering frequency during hot, dry periods to prevent the soil from drying out completely, which could stress the plant. In non-growing seasons like fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, ensuring the soil does not become overly dry. It's crucial to avoid water standing around the roots to prevent rot, so ensure good drainage.
LightBarrenwort thrives best in partial shade but can tolerate full shade. This makes them ideal for planting under taller plants or trees where they can receive filtered sunlight. They should be protected from intense afternoon sun, as this can scorch their delicate leaves. The best spot for barrenwort would be an area that gets morning sun and afternoon shade, or a dappled light situation that simulates a woodland setting.
TemperatureBarrenwort plants prefer a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from about 50°F to 75°F. They are cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to around -20°F, making them suitable for many temperate regions. They can survive brief periods of higher temperatures, but consistently hot conditions above 85°F might stress the plant. Ideal temperature conditions would mimic their native woodland environment, which is generally cool to moderate.
PruningPruning barrenwort is principally for aesthetics and to remove any damaged or dead foliage, which encourages healthy growth and improves airflow. It's best to prune in early spring, just before new growth begins. Cut back the old foliage from the previous season to make room for the fresh leaves and flowers. Pruning is typically performed once a year, and since barrenwort is a low-maintenance plant, this is often the only pruning needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Bishop's Hat (Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur') is well-drained, humus-rich, and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. Incorporate organic matter like leaf mold or compost to enrich the soil and improve its structure.
RepottingBishop's Hat should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate its moderate growth rate. It's best to repot in the spring just before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingBishop's Hat thrives in average to high humidity conditions but is adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity levels without significant impact on its health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Bishop's Hat in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and ensure soil is well-drained and rich.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Barrenwort 'Flowers of Sulphur', typically emerges from dormancy in early spring, when the ground temperature warms up sufficiently, with leaf buds swelling and new foliage unfurling. Following leaf emergence, the plant soon begins its flowering phase, producing small, yellow flowers that hang in loose clusters above the heart-shaped leaves, usually in mid to late spring. After pollination, which often involves bees and other insects, the flowers develop into small, dry fruits containing seeds that can be dispersed by wind or wildlife. Throughout the summer, Barrenwort continues to grow vegetatively, expanding its clump with new leaves and rhizomes, and may go semi-dormant in hot climates. As fall approaches, the plant's growth slows down, and the leaves may change color, sometimes taking on bronzy or reddish tones before dying back. During the winter, the Barrenwort 'Flowers of Sulphur' enters a period of dormancy, with the rhizome surviving underground until the next cycle begins in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Epimedium 'Flowers of Sulphur', commonly known as barrenwort or fairy wings, is by division. This is best done in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Carefully lift the entire plant from the ground using a garden fork, gently teasing apart the rhizomes to create smaller clumps, ensuring that each new section has at least a couple of growth points. These divisions can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced approximately 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish roots and to reduce transplant stress.
