Epimedium 'Domino' AGM

Barrenwort Berberidaceae

A rather splendid piece of horticultural mischief, Epimedium ‘Domino’ is a 2004 hybrid raised by the American Epimedium breeder Darrell Probst. It is a vigorous, exceptionally floriferous plant, producing arching sprays of flowers above handsome, spiny foliage. The new leaves emerge with attractive bronze and burgundy markings before maturing to green, often retaining a useful flush of colour. 

From March into May, fine red stems carry clouds of pink-centred flowers with long white spurs, giving the impression of a small army of rather elegant jesters hovering above the foliage. A mature plant can produce around 100 flower stems, making ‘Domino’ considerably more floriferous than its modest stature might suggest. 

It is an excellent plant for woodland conditions, partial or full shade and, once established, surprisingly tolerant of dry shade. Give it fertile, humus-rich soil for best performance and cut back tired foliage in late winter before the new flower stems emerge.

Height: 50–60cm
Spread: 80–100cm
Flowering: March–May
Hardiness: H6 (-20 to -15°C); exceptionally hardy and reported to have survived around -20°C in Scotland.