Barrenwort Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Lilafee' belonging to the common name barrenwort, displays a delicate and enchanting appearance. Its foliage, heart-shaped with a slightly spiky contour, emerges in spring with a bronzy-purple hue that gradually transitions to a softer, lush green as the season progresses. The leaves pertain to a mounding habit, which creates a dense and attractive groundcover that remains appealing even when the plant is not in bloom. Barrenwort's blossoms are particularly striking and add to its ornamental appeal. The flowers, which appear in abundance, dangle gracefully from slender, wiry stems that rise above the foliage. Each bloom is composed of four outer petals and four inner sepals. The outer petals stand out with their soft lilac to purple coloration, complementing the lighter lavender to pink shades of the inner sepals. The cups of the flowers are elongated and spurred, giving the blossoms a fairy-like or whimsical appearance that charms onlookers and provides an almost magical aspect to shaded garden areas where the plant thrives. These enchanting flowers create a soft yet vibrant display, inviting the eye to linger and appreciate the intricate beauty of 'Lilafee' barrenwort.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Berberidaceae
Synonyms
Barrenwort, Bishop's Hat, Fairy Wings, Horny Goat Weed
Common names
Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee'.
ToxicityTo humans
Bishop's hat, as Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee' is commonly known, does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans. Generally, it is not considered to be poisonous and there are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning as a result of ingesting this plant. Although not commonly consumed, accidental ingestion is unlikely to lead to serious consequences.
To pets
Bishop's hat generally does not appear on lists of plants known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There is little to no evidence to suggest that the Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee' variety has any toxicity to pets. Therefore, if pets were to accidentally ingest this plant, they are not expected to experience any significant poisoning symptoms or severe health consequences directly attributed to the plant. However, it is always prudent to monitor pets for any unusual behavior after ingesting any form of plant material and consult with a veterinarian if concerns arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ground Cover: The dense foliage of the 'Lilafee' barrenwort provides excellent ground cover, suppressing weeds and helping to maintain soil moisture.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Shade Tolerance: This variety thrives in part to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Low Maintenance: 'Lilafee' barrenwort requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects, which is beneficial for the overall health of the garden and local ecosystem.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is less palatable to deer and rabbits, which helps prevent damage in gardens where such pests are a problem.
- Seasonal Interest: With attractive foliage and delicate purple blooms in spring, 'Lilafee' barrenwort adds visual interest to the garden throughout multiple seasons.
- Erosion Control: The rooted clumps can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Edging Plant: Its compact form and ornamental leaves make it a good choice for edging in garden beds or pathways.
- Texture Variety: The unique leaf shapes provide textural contrast to other garden plants, enhancing the overall aesthetic of plant compositions.
- Winter Interest: 'Lilafee' barrenwort's evergreen foliage provides color and interest in the garden even during the winter months.
Medical Properties- Libido enhancement - Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac to boost sexual desire.
- Osteoporosis prevention - Contains icariin, which is thought to help maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
- Erectile dysfunction - Used to improve erectile function, potentially through increasing blood flow.
- Menopausal symptom relief - May alleviate some symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings.
- Anti-inflammatory effects - The plant exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may help in treating conditions related to inflammation.
- Antioxidant properties - Contains flavonoids that provide antioxidative effects to protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Immune system support - Epimedium may have immunomodulatory effects, supporting the body's immune defenses.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ground Cover: 'Lilafee' barrenwort can serve as an effective ground cover in shaded garden areas, where it spreads slowly to form a dense mat of foliage that suppresses weeds.
- Garden Borders: The compact and low-growing nature of 'Lilafee' barrenwort makes it suitable for creating delicate edges along garden borders or walkways.
- Rock Gardens: The plant's resilience and attractive foliage allow it to thrive in rock gardens, adding color and texture amidst the stones.
- Woodland Gardens: 'Lilafee' barrenwort fits perfectly into woodland garden designs, adding a splash of color under trees and complementing naturally occurring plant species.
- Fauna Attraction: The flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: 'Lilafee' barrenwort produces flowers in the spring, adding visual interest during a time when many other plants have not yet bloomed.
- Foliage Texture Contrast: Its heart-shaped leaves provide textural contrast when planted alongside plants with larger or more linear foliage, such as hostas or ferns.
- Container Gardening: Being relatively compact, it adapts well to container gardening, allowing for versatility in placement on patios or balconies.
- Erosion Control: The plant's ability to form dense mats of foliage and its tolerance of shady conditions make it a good candidate for preventing soil erosion on slopes or in shaded areas.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, barrenwort is appreciated for its mythical connotations of vitality and enchantment, utilized in thematic gardens or storytelling landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant name Epimedium, commonly known as Barrenwort, is not traditionally associated with Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityBarrenwort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee', commonly known as Bishop's Hat or Fairy Wings, is often associated with longevity due to its ability to thrive in tough conditions and its evergreen nature in some climates.
- Youthful Energy: The vibrant blooms and playful shape of the Bishop's Hat flowers symbolize a youthful zest for life and joy in many Eastern cultures.
- Sensual Pleasure: In traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Asia, the plant is often linked to sensuality and is used as an aphrodisiac, representing a connection to physical and romantic pleasure.
- Protection: With its tough and resilient nature, Bishop's Hat also symbolizes protection, as it's believed to provide a shield against negative forces and diseases.
WaterFor Bishop's Hat (Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee'), it is best to water the plant thoroughly as soon as the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this might mean watering about once a week, but the frequency will vary depending on temperature, humidity, and soil conditions. Each watering session should moisten the soil deeply, so water slowly and evenly, using around 1 to 2 gallons for a mature plant, depending on its size. It’s important to avoid overwatering, as Epimedium prefers well-drained soil. During the winter months, you can reduce the amount since the plant will be dormant and using less water.
LightBishop's Hat thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for a shaded garden spot or an area under a canopy of trees. The ideal location would offer morning light with protection from the intense afternoon sun, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Indoor plants will do well near a north-facing window or a spot receiving filtered sunlight.
TemperatureBishop's Hat is quite hardy and prefers cooler temperatures but can tolerate a range from about 50°F to 75°F, which is ideal for its growth. The plant can survive temperatures down to around -20°F and up to 80°F. However, prolonged exposure to extremes may damage the plant. Avoid placing it in areas where temperature fluctuations are frequent or extreme.
PruningFor Bishop's Hat, pruning helps to remove old foliage and encourages fresh growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the entire plant to within a few inches of the ground. This yearly pruning routine not only rejuvenates the plant but also helps prevent diseases by stimulating healthy new foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Bishop's Hat (Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee') is well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. A mixture of garden soil, compost, peat moss, and perlite or pine bark can provide the necessary conditions.
RepottingBishop's Hat should be repotted approximately every two to three years or when it appears to be outgrowing its current container. The best time to repot is in the spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingBishop's Hat thrives in average to high humidity environments. The best humidity level ranges from around 50% to 70%. They prefer a moist atmosphere but can tolerate lower humidity levels without significant adverse effects.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with moist, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade; keep soil consistently moist.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleEpimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee', commonly known as Bishop's Hat or Fairy Wings, has a perennial life cycle starting with seed germination, usually occurring in spring when the soil warms. After germination, seedlings develop into juvenile plants with small, heart-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, it forms a clumping mound of larger, more ornate leaves and in spring, produces tall, wiry stems bearing small, delicate flowers, typically lilac, hence the name 'Lilafee'. Once flowering is complete, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth throughout the summer where foliage may expand or new shoots can emerge from the rhizomatous root system. In fall, the leaves often change color before dying back, and the plant enters dormancy during the cold winter months. With the return of favorable conditions in the subsequent spring, the Bishop's Hat resumes growth from its overwintering roots, repeating its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee', also known as the Fairy Wings or Bishop's Hat, is commonly propagated through division. The best time for dividing Fairy Wings plants is in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire clump of the plant and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions promptly at the same soil depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them. This is the most popular method of propagation for Fairy Wings as it helps to maintain the desirable characteristics of the 'Lilafee' cultivar and quickly produces mature plants.
