Epimedium fargesii

Barrenwort Berberidaceae

One of the more distinctive Chinese Epimediums, E. fargesii is an evergreen species from Sichuan and Hubei, growing in woodland and thickets. It forms handsome clumps of narrow, arrow-shaped, finely spiny leaflets, often emerging with an attractive bronze or dark maroon flush. 

In spring, elegant sprays of pendulous, almost Dodecatheon-like flowers appear above the foliage. Pale pink to white inner sepals surround small lavender-purple petals and spurs, with conspicuous yellow stamens providing the finishing touch. Once established, it makes an impressive and surprisingly substantial clump. 

The species was a particular target of Darrell Probst’s November 2000 collecting expedition to China, during which he collected material from seven separate locations, subsequently introducing several clones into cultivation. 

An excellent woodland plant, tolerant of dry shade once established but happiest in humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil. Evergreen, long-lived and considerably more interesting than its rather restrained common name suggests.

Height: 35–50cm
Spread: 45–60cm
Flowering: April–May
Foliage: Evergreen
Hardiness: H6 (-20 to -15°C)