Wudang Star Barrenwort Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star'
ABOUT
Wudang Star is a variety of Epimedium, often also known as Bishop's Hat or Fairy Wings. This ornamental plant is admired for its beautiful foliage and delicate flowers. The leaves of Wudang Star are heart-shaped with a spiny, tooth-like edge, and they often have a mottled appearance, with patterns of maroon and bronze, especially when young. Over time, the leaves mature to a rich green color, providing a stunning backdrop for the blossoms. The flowers of Wudang Star dangle like tiny, enchanted lanterns on wiry stems above the foliage in spring. Each bloom consists of long, spurred petals that are typically an alluring shade of pale yellow. The petals can have a slight translucency and are arrayed in a beguiling, star-like formation around a contrasting center. These blossoms form a charming constellation that hovers over the foliage, giving the plant its celestial common name associations and adding to its magical presence in the garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Berberidaceae.
Synonyms
Bishops Hat, Barrenwort, Fairy Wings, Horny Goat Weed.
Common names
Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star'.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited information on the toxicity of Bishop's hat (Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star') to humans. Generally, Epimedium species are not known to be toxic and are sometimes used in traditional medicine. However, consuming any plant not typically regarded as a food item can pose risks of stomach upset or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is always advisable to prevent consumption of ornamental plants.
To pets
Bishop's hat (Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star') is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, it is generally recommended to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not specifically meant for consumption, as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant and is showing symptoms of distress, consult your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star', commonly known as Barrenwort, has heart-shaped leaves that add aesthetic appeal to garden spaces.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Barrenwort is known for its ability to withstand dry periods, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Shade Tolerance: It flourishes in shaded areas where other plants may struggle, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shady borders.
- Ground Cover: Its spreading habit helps to cover bare spots in the garden, reducing weed growth and minimizing soil erosion.
- Long Blooming Period: Barrenwort produces flowers for an extended period, typically from spring to early summer, adding color for several weeks.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistance: The plant is not a preferred choice for deer and rabbits, which helps prevent damage in gardens prone to these visitors.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, Barrenwort is ideal for gardeners looking for plants that do not require frequent attention.
- Winter Interest: Some varieties of Barrenwort offer semi-evergreen foliage, which provides visual interest in the garden even in the colder months.
Medical Properties- Libido Enhancement: Commonly known as Horny Goat Weed, extracts of this plant have been traditionally used to enhance sexual desire and performance.
- Osteoporosis: Contains icariin, which is thought to be involved in bone health and has been studied for its potential in preventing or treating osteoporosis.
- Erectile Dysfunction: It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for improving erectile dysfunction, with some studies suggesting that it may help by increasing blood flow.
- Menopausal Symptoms: The plant is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as reduced sexual desire and bone loss.
- Anti-fatigue Effects: Epimedium species have been suggested to have anti-fatigue properties and may increase energy levels.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Epimedium, commonly known as barrenwort, can be used in cut flower arrangements. Their delicate flowers can add an exotic touch to bouquets.
- Barrenwort leaves, which change color throughout the seasons, can be used for creating pressed flower art to capture their unique shapes and tones.
- Ground cover in shady gardens, as barrenwort spreads nicely and can create a dense carpet that reduces weed growth.
- Barrenwort can be used in container gardens. They add texture and interest due to their foliage and airy flower structure.
- Wudang Star is suitable for underplanting larger plants or trees, providing a lush, understory layer in the garden design.
- The dried leaves of barrenwort are sometimes incorporated into potpourris for their texture and color rather than for their fragrance.
- Epimedium can serve as a habitat for beneficial insects, creating a miniature ecosystem within the garden.
- They can be planted alongside spring bulbs to mask the dying foliage of the bulbs with their own attractive leaves.
- Barrenwort may be used in theme gardens, such as fairy or woodland gardens, due to their delicate, fairy-wing-like flowers.
- In artistic landscape designs, their heart-shaped leaves can be a subtle symbol for love or romance in garden storytelling.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Epimedium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Epimedium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Libido and Fertility: As a variety of Horny Goat Weed, Epimedium is traditionally associated with enhancing libido and fertility, likely due to its history as an herbal aphrodisiac.
- Longevity: Epimedium is reputed to support longevity, which might be connected to traditional Chinese medicine that uses it to promote overall health and balance within the body.
- Adaptability: The 'Wudang Star' grows well in a range of conditions, symbolizing adaptability and resilience in various environments.
WaterBishop's Hat, commonly known as Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star', prefers consistent moisture, especially during its growing season in spring and early summer. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering once a week. Use about one gallon of water per watering session to ensure the soil is moistened thoroughly but avoid waterlogging the soil. During the hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently, while in the winter, you should reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
LightBishop's Hat thrives best in partial to full shade, avoiding direct harsh sunlight which can scorch its delicate leaves. The ideal spot is one that receives filtered light or a few hours of morning sun followed by dappled shade throughout the day. This plant can handle more sun in cooler climates, provided it gets enough moisture, but it truly prefers a shadier spot to mimic its natural woodland habitat.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Bishop's Hat is between 50°F and 75°F. It can survive short periods of temperatures slightly higher or lower than this range, but it is important to avoid extreme temperatures below 20°F or above 80°F, as these could damage the plant. To thrive, Bishop's Hat should be kept in a place where the temperature is consistent and does not fluctuate dramatically.
PruningPruning Bishop's Hat helps to remove old, damaged, or discolored foliage and promotes new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the foliage to ground level. This is also the best time to remove any crowded or crossing stems to maintain good air circulation. Pruning once a year is sufficient for maintaining the health and appearance of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBishop's Hat requires moist, well-drained soil with a high organic matter content. The best soil mix would be a combination of loam, peat, and sharp sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 suits this plant best.
RepottingBishop’s Hat typically requires repotting every 2 to 3 years as it is a slow grower. It's best to repot in the spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy.
Humidity & MistingBishop's Hat prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim to maintain humidity around 50% for optimal growth conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Grow in part shade; shelter from intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star', commonly known as 'Wudang Star' barrenwort, begins with seed germination, which requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Following germination, the plant develops a rosette of heart-shaped leaves and establishes a root system. In its juvenile phase, 'Wudang Star' focuses on vegetative growth, expanding its foliage and forming a dense, slowly spreading clump via rhizomatous growth. Upon reaching maturity, typically within 2 to 3 years, the plant produces airy sprays of small, star-shaped flowers in the spring, often with a distinctive creamy white or pale yellow shade. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed to initiate new plantlets. The perennial nature of 'Wudang Star' allows it to undergo a period of dormancy in the winter, after which it will resume growth in the spring, repeating its growth and reproductive cycle annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagation for Epimedium stellulatum 'Wudang Star', commonly known as Wudang Star Barrenwort, is by division. This is typically done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the root ball into smaller sections, each with several growth points or leaves. Replant the divisions at the same soil depth as the original plant and water them thoroughly to establish the new plants. Divisions should be spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. It is essential to keep the soil moist until the divisions are well-established, but avoid waterlogging the soil.
