Epimedium x rubrum

BISHOP'S HAT, BISHOP'S MITRE
Family: Berberidaceae
Pronounced: ep-ee-MEE-dee-um REW-brum

 

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

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GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 1-9, 14-17.
USDA zones: 4-8.
Heat zones:8-1.
Mature size:
Height:12 inches (15-30 cm).
Width: 12 inches (30 cm).
Flowering period:
Mid to late spring.
Flowering attributes:
Three quarter-inch crimson and creamy yellow flowers with upward curving spurs blossom in late March.
Leaf attributes:
Heart-shaped, flushed red when leaves are young, the evergreen foliage turns shiny and green until fall when the leaves turn red and bronze.
Growth habit:
Clump forming.
Light:
Partial shade.
Soil:
Grow this plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil for optimal results.
Propagation Methods:
Propagate plants by division immediately after they have flowered in spring or during the autumn season.
Pruning Methods:
Shear plants back to the ground in late winter to allow the flowers and new leaf growth to be seen.

 

Rainy Side Notes

Epimedium x rubrum, commonly known as Bishop's hat, is a plant that adds a touch of thrill to any shady garden. Its captivating foliage is a true marvel, and its unique beauty never fails to inspire me.

The perennial wonder, Epimedium x rubrum, is a testament to the ingenuity of Dutch gardener André Donckelaar (1783-1858). His skillful crossbreeding of Epimedium grandiflorum with E. alpinum gave birth to this beauty, later named by Charles Morren in 1854. Despite initial confusion about its origins, Darrell Probst, a renowned expert in Epimediums, believes its vibrant spring foliage can only be attributed to Epimedium sempervirens 'Violet Queen.'

This resilient plant is a true survivor, thriving in partial shade and serving as an exceptional ground cover for dry, shaded areas. The intense red coloring on its new leaves in spring truly shines in full sun, although it will require more water during the summer. With a growth rate of about four inches per year, planting them 18 inches apart will lead to a lush, cohesive mass of foliage within two seasons. Plant them in a sheltered area shielded from cold winds for best results.

Epimedium x rubrum is a 2005 Great Plant Pick.

Photographed in author's garden.

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