White Queen Barrenwort Epimedium grandiflorum 'White Queen'
ABOUT
The 'White Queen' is a captivating variety of the Bishop's Hat plant, celebrated for its ornamental charm. It boasts a lush green foliage that provides a striking backdrop to the real stars of the show – the enchanting white flowers. The leaves, which are heart-shaped, emerge with a bronzy tinge in the spring and mature to a deep green, creating a visually pleasing contrast throughout the growing season. In spring to early summer, the 'White Queen' produces delicate, nodding flowers that command attention. Each blossom features four long, pure white petals that extend outward like little spurs from the central point of the flower. The stamens are often prominent, giving the center a contrasting, typically yellow hue that adds a touch of warmth to the coolness of the petals. These fairy-like blooms cluster above the foliage on slender, branching stems that allow them to dance gracefully in the breeze. The overall effect of the 'White Queen' is one of understated elegance and serene beauty, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of whimsical charm to their shade gardens or woodland settings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Bishop's Hat, Barrenwort, Fairy Wings, Horny Goat Weed
Common names
Epimedium macranthum var. violaceum, Epimedium grandiflorum var. thunbergianum, Epimedium grandiflorum f. flavescens, Epimedium grandiflorum f. violaceum.
ToxicityTo humans
Horny goat weed (Epimedium) is not well-documented for toxicity in humans, and there is limited information on the consequences of ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant not typically consumed as food, it is prudent to avoid ingestion because individual sensitivities and allergic reactions can occur. If someone were to ingest Epimedium and adverse symptoms were to appear, it is important to seek medical attention.
To pets
Horny goat weed (Epimedium) does not have a well-documented toxicity profile for pets, including dogs or cats. While the plant is not widely known to be poisonous, animals may experience gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction if they consume parts of the plant. If you suspect your pet has ingested Epimedium and is showing negative symptoms, consult with your veterinarian for appropriate care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers - 'White Queen' boasts elegant white flowers that can add a touch of sophistication to any garden.
- Shade Tolerance - This variety can thrive in partial shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded areas.
- Drought Resistance - Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less watering than more delicate plants.
- Deer Resistance - Epimedium is not a preferred food for deer, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
- Ground Cover - The plant forms a dense mat, which can help prevent weeds in the garden.
- Seasonal Interest - Provides visual interest throughout multiple seasons thanks to its flowers in spring and attractive foliage that changes color in fall.
- Easy to Grow - Known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the right conditions.
- Erosion Control - Its dense growth habit makes it effective at stabilizing soil in sloped gardens or areas prone to erosion.
Medical Properties- Libido Enhancement: Epimedium, commonly known as "horny goat weed," is traditionally used to enhance libido and sexual function.
- Osteoporosis Management: Some studies suggest that Epimedium may have potential in preventing bone density loss and managing conditions like osteoporosis.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: The plant contains icariin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties useful in reducing inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant Activity: Compounds in Epimedium may work as antioxidants to protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Erectile Dysfunction: There is some evidence to indicate that Epimedium can be used to alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
- Immune System Support: Epimedium may have a role in supporting the immune system, though the extent and mechanism of its effects require further study.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: White Queen Epimedium's delicate white flowers can be a source of inspiration for artists, particularly in botanical illustration and watercolor paintings where capturing their subtle beauty can be a rewarding challenge.
- Photography subject: The plant's unique aesthetic, with its heart-shaped leaves and light blossoms, makes it a favorite subject for macro and nature photographers looking to capture its ethereal quality.
- Thematic gardens: Due to its regal name and appearance, White Queen Epimedium can be used to create a fairytale or queen-themed garden space.
- Shade garden highlight: This plant thrives in shady areas where it can be used to brighten up typically dark spaces with its light-colored flowers.
- Living mulch: As a groundcover, White Queen Epimedium can act as a living mulch, providing soil moisture retention and weed suppression while being more aesthetically pleasing than traditional mulch materials.
- Textile design: The distinctive flowers and foliage of Epimedium can be used as motifs in textile patterns, contributing to fabric designs for fashion or interior decoration.
- Educational tool: Botany and horticulture educators can use the White Queen Epimedium to teach students about plant adaptation to shade and woodland habitats.
- Seasonal decoration: The blooms can be used in springtime floral arrangements and decorative wreaths for doors or centerpieces.
- Companion planting: This plant can be used in companion planting beneath shallow-rooted trees, providing aesthetic appeal without competing heavily for resources.
- Habitat creation: By planting White Queen Epimedium in a garden, it can provide habitat and food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies that are attracted to its flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bishop's Hat is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bishop's Hat is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Epimedium grandiflorum, commonly known as the 'Bishop's Hat', is renowned for its tough nature and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, symbolizing the human quality of endurance.
- Youthful Vitality: With its potency in traditional medicine as a tonic for youthful vigor, the Bishop's Hat represents the concept of maintaining energy and vitality through time.
- Protection: The plant's resilient characteristics lend it to symbolize protection, as it's thought to have the ability to endure and survive in various environments.
- Sexual Health: In traditional Chinese medicine, the Bishop's Hat is often associated with treatment of fertility and sexual health, making it a symbol of reproductive strength and libido.
WaterBishop's Hat should be watered regularly to maintain an evenly moist soil, especially during the growing season of spring and early summer. Typically, watering deeply once or twice a week with about 0.5 to 1 gallon per plant should be sufficient, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. In hotter, drier periods, additional water may be required to prevent the soil from drying out completely. During the winter when the plant is dormant, reduce watering but do not let the soil become completely dry. It is crucial to avoid waterlogging, so ensure that the soil has good drainage.
LightBishop's Hat prefers to grow in partial shade to full shade conditions. The best spot for this plant would be in a garden area that receives filtered sunlight or is shaded for part of the day, avoiding direct afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. A north-facing garden or the dappled shade under a deciduous tree is ideal for this plant to thrive.
TemperatureBishop's Hat is hardy and can tolerate temperatures ranging from as low as around 5 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature for this plant is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, where it can grow most vigorously. Extreme temperatures beyond the stated range should be avoided to prevent any possible damage to the plant.
PruningPrune Bishop's Hat in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This pruning helps to remove any dead or damaged foliage and promotes healthier, more vigorous growth during the growing season. The best time for pruning is when the plant is still dormant, usually once a year. If you notice any old or withered leaves during the growing season, you can also trim these away to maintain the plant's appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBishop's Hat prefers moist, well-drained soil with high organic content. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 7.
RepottingBishop's Hat doesn't need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years. Repot in the spring or early summer when the plant is exiting dormancy.
Humidity & MistingBishop's Hat thrives in average room humidity. The best humidity level ranges between 40% to 60%. No need for misting if these levels are maintained.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Bishop's Hat in bright, indirect light and water when topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant Bishop's Hat in part shade and enrich soil with organic matter.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Epimedium grandiflorum 'White Queen', commonly known as White Queen Barrenwort, begins with seed germination, which occurs when conditions are moist and warm, typically in spring. The seedlings establish themselves, developing a robust root system and foliage through vegetative growth. As the plant matures, it forms a clumping habit with heart-shaped leaves and erect stems. Flowering occurs in early to late spring, producing white, spurred flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into a dry fruit containing seeds that disperse to start a new generation. With the arrival of winter, the plant becomes dormant, with some foliage dieback, but the rootstock survives to regenerate the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating 'White Queen' Epimedium, also known as Bishop's Hat, involves division. The ideal time for this is in late summer or early fall after the plant has finished blooming. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant ensuring a good amount of roots with each clump. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clumps into smaller sections, each with several growth buds. Replant the divisions promptly, maintaining a depth equal to how they were originally growing. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish the roots. This method allows the gardener to produce new plants that are true to the parent plant and begins to increase the garden display in a relatively short period of time.
