Epimedium x warleyense

Warleyense bishop's hat

Epimedium × warleyense — commonly called Warley Barrenwort — is a shade-loving perennial valued for its graceful sprays of small, coppery-orange to soft yellow flowers 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, airy groundcover. Its refined texture and multi-season foliage interest make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens and dry shade.

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in
Height: 12–18 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 loose, airy habit
Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, underplanting trees, and naturalized areas
Warm-toned flowers provide soft color in spring
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

12-18''

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Mid-spring

Flower color

Peach

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Groundcover

Shape

Spreading

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No