Epimedium pauciflorum

Barrenwort Berberidaceae

A little Epimedium with rather more to say for itself than its name suggests. Epimedium pauciflorum is a compact, evergreen species from the mountains of Maowen, Sichuan, where it grows on forest margins and weedy slopes at around 1,700–2,600m. Its long, slender rhizomes allow it to spread into an attractive low carpet. 

The foliage is dark, glossy and distinctly toothed, emerging with a bronze flush. In April and May, relatively few—but charming—flowers appear, with white to pale rose sepals and spurred petals. And here is the unexpected bonus: the flowers are sweetly scented, with a distinct Lily-of-the-Valley fragrance—rather more perfume than its modest flower count would have you expect.

An excellent, tough groundcover for woodland or dry shade, becoming remarkably drought tolerant once established. Best in humus-rich soil, partial shade and a position sheltered from drying winds.

Height: 15–30cm | Spread: 40–60cm
Flowering: April–May | Foliage: Evergreen
Hardiness: H6 (-20 to -15°C)