Epimedium spp. nova 'Spine Tingler' - Spine Tingler Barrenwort

Delicate shooting star-like butter yellow flowers; spiny green leaves have reddish overtones in spring and fall; makes a great groundcover that is tolerant of dry shade once established; also grows well in moisture if well-drained

Height: 10 inches. Sun: partial shade to full shade. Hardiness zone: 4a.

Ornamental features

Spine Tingler Barrenwort's attractive heart-shaped leaves emerge burgundy in spring, turning green in color the rest of the year on a plant with a spreading habit of growth. It features delicate nodding buttery yellow star-shaped flowers rising above the foliage from mid to late spring.

Landscape

Spine Tingler Barrenwort is a dense herbaceous evergreen perennial with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth. It is a good choice for attracting bees and not particularly attractive to deer. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

Recommended for: Mass Planting, Border Edging, General Garden Use, Groundcover, Naturalizing And Woodland Gardens, Container Planting.

Planting and growing

Spine Tingler Barrenwort will grow to be about 8 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. When grown in masses, individual plants should be spaced approximately 14 inches apart. Its foliage remains low and dense. It grows at a medium rate and under ideal conditions can live approximately 10 years. As an evergreen perennial, it keeps its form and foliage year-round.

This plant does best in partial shade to shade. It is adaptable to dry and moist conditions but will not tolerate standing water. It is considered drought-tolerant and prefers rich soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This particular variety is an interspecific hybrid.

Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder.