Red Barrenwort

Epimedium x rubrum

Nature Hills Nursery

Red Barrenwort Rubrum Spreads Faster than Most Epimediums for Quick Shade Coverage
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Grows 1 ft Tall, 1-2 ft Wide
Showy Red Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant

$42⁹⁶

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Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This plant thrives in partial to full shade, ideally receiving only 2 to 4 hours of soft morning light. Too much direct afternoon sun will scorch the delicate foliage and cause the vibrant red leaf margins to fade.
Soil: Choose a location with loose, organic soil that drains well. If you are dealing with heavy clay, mix in several inches of compost or aged bark to improve aeration and prevent the roots from sitting in stagnant water.

Watering Requirements

Water your Barrenwort twice a week during its first year to help the roots establish deep in the soil. While these plants are famous for their ability to handle dry shade once mature, providing supplemental water during summer droughts prevents the leaves from curling or dropping early.

Pruning Tips

Think of pruning as a spring refresh for your garden bed. Cut the old, weathered foliage down to the ground in late winter before the new flower spikes begin to emerge. This clearing process ensures the dainty spring blooms are fully visible instead of being buried under last year's tattered leaves.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer once in early spring as you see new growth starting to push through the soil. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer. Excess nitrogen at that time forces the plant to produce tender new leaves that will not have enough time to harden off before the first winter frost.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Unique & Playful Garden Jester-Hats Red Barrenwort!

Four-Pointed White & Red Flowers
Arching & Graceful Mounds
Green Heart-Shaped Leaflets
Easy Care & Spreads Faster
Part Shade to Full Shade Perennial
No Deer, Rabbit, Pest or Disease Issues!

Red Barrenwort (Epimedium x rubrum) are fascinating additions to your shady glens and garden beds!

Four-pointed Jester Hats dangle playfully above weeping mounds of lovely green, heart-shaped leaves. Barrenworts early spring blooms dance in the breeze and dappled shade!

Red sepals and white undersides, the flowers hover gracefully on red-tinged, wiry stems with bright yellow stamen.

How to Use Red Barrenwort In The Landscape

Shade-loving Red Barrenwort loves part to full shade areas under trees and large shrubs. Creating lovely ground covers and erosion control as they spread and spill over embankments and slopes.

Cottage gardens, perennial beds and rock gardens become joyful with the addition of these playful plants.

Property edges and woodland gardens won't have to worry about deer and rabbits either!

#ProPlantTips For Care

Red Barrenwort does need some protection from the cold, dry winds. Hardy from zones 4-8, Barrenwort loves the full shade in warmer climates and partial shade in cooler zones.

Growing in average to dry, well-drained soils, they prefer moist, humus-rich medium but tolerate dry shade. Drought tolerant once established, they appreciate mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.

Prune in late winter, otherwise, they're low-maintenance, plus Barrenwort are pest and disease-free!

Order your own fanciful Red Barrenwort from Nature Hills Nursery today!

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Growing Zones 5-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature height and spread of Red Barrenwort?

Red Barrenwort typically reaches 8-12 inches tall and spreads 12-18 inches wide, forming graceful arching mounds. This slow to moderate spreader works well as groundcover in zones 4-8. Plant 12-15 inches apart for eventual coverage, allowing 2-3 years for full establishment.

What type of soil does Red Barrenwort need, like acidic or amended?

Red Barrenwort thrives in average to dry, well-drained soils and doesn't require specific pH amendments. While it prefers moist, humus-rich medium, it tolerates dry shade conditions once established. Add mulch to keep roots cool and shop quality plants at naturehills.com.

How much water does Red Barrenwort require during establishment and after maturity?

Red Barrenwort needs regular watering during establishment but becomes drought tolerant once mature. This hardy perennial (zones 4-8) prefers moist, humus-rich soil but tolerates dry shade conditions. Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep roots cool.

Is Red Barrenwort evergreen or deciduous, especially in colder climates?

Red Barrenwort is deciduous, losing its heart-shaped leaves in winter across zones 4-8. The foliage dies back completely in colder climates, which is why late winter pruning is recommended. Cut back old foliage before new spring growth emerges for best appearance.

How do I prune or shear Red Barrenwort for best growth?

Prune Red Barrenwort in late winter before new growth emerges. Cut back old foliage to ground level to showcase the spring flowers and fresh heart-shaped leaves. This low-maintenance perennial requires minimal pruning otherwise. Shop at Nature Hills for quality plants.

What are common pests or diseases for Red Barrenwort, like vine weevils?

Red Barrenwort has no significant pest or disease issues, including resistance to vine weevils. This hardy perennial (zones 4-8) naturally repels deer and rabbits while remaining pest-free. Simply provide well-drained soil and mulch to maintain healthy plants.

How does Red Barrenwort ship—bare root, potted, or rhizomes?

Red Barrenwort typically ships as potted plants rather than bare root or rhizomes, allowing for easier establishment in your shade garden. Since they're hardy in zones 4-8, you can plant them throughout most of the growing season. Choose a partially to fully shaded spot with well-draining soil for best results.

What is the recommended spacing for planting Red Barrenwort?

Space Red Barrenwort plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for their natural spreading habit. These perennials form graceful mounds and will fill in gaps as they establish. In zones 4-8, give them room to spread as ground cover while maintaining good air circulation.