Epimedium Versicolor 'Sulphureum'

Bicolor Barrenwort

Epimedium × versicolor ‘Sulphureum’ — commonly called Sulphureum Barrenwort — is a reliable, shade-loving perennial valued for its soft, pale yellow flowers with delicate spurs that appear in mid-spring, held just above the foliage. Heart-shaped leaves emerge with bronze to reddish tones in spring, mature to soft green, and often develop warm red highlights in fall, forming a slowly spreading, dense groundcover. Its adaptability and multi-season foliage interest make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens and dry shade.

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in
Height: 8–12 in

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich soils; tolerant of dry shade once established
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but adapts to drier conditions
Wildlife: Generally not favored by deer

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Low, spreading groundcover with a dense, clumping habit
Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, underplanting trees, and naturalized areas
Soft yellow flowers brighten shaded spaces in spring
Highly adaptable and reliable in difficult shade conditions
Deer resistant and low maintenance

Maintenance:
Cut back old foliage in late winter before new growth emerges
Divide clumps in spring if needed
Mulch to improve soil and conserve moisture

Plant type

Perennial

Height

8-12'

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Dark Red, Green, Purple

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Ground Cover

Drought tolerant

No