Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side'

Scientific Name: Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side'

Also Known As

Dark Side Barrenwort

Plant type

perennial, groundcover

size

H: 12"-15"
W: 18"-24"

planting zones

5a-9b

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Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side' plant details

Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side' is a broadleaf deciduous perennial groundcover with bronze and green foliage. In spring purple flowers emerge. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with bright shade - shade and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, rich, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side'

Plant type: perennial groundcover
Plant family: berberidaceae
Foliage: deciduous bronze and green
Mature size: 18 IN - 24 IN - wide, 12 IN - 15 IN - tall
Flowers: purple blooms in spring
Uses: container plant, easy-to-grow, edging plant, heart-shaped leaves, long-lived, rock garden, woodland garden, year-round-interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Epimedium grandiflorum 'Dark Side'

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: bright shade - shade
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer, heat and humidity
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, rich, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This selection comes from Arbutus Gardens in Oregon; late spring flowers in April – May are clear tones of dark plum purple, positively glowing against apple green, foliage (often delicately outlined in red); 6-12” deciduous clumps expanding to about 2’; part shade to shade, happiest in well drained, rich, consistently moist soil, but survives in dry in shade with less optimum soil.

By: Secret Garden Growers

A selection made by Deb and Norm of Arbutus Gardens. If there wouldn't be so many other contenders, this would easily be my favorite but it definitely ranks top. Besides being one of the darkest if not the darkest, the dark purple is rather bright as opposed to dull. This makes it more pleasant and colorful. Furthermore, the bloom season is on the late side but still lasts longer than average. But I'm not done yet; for even more contrast and cheer, the foliage is decidedly on the bright side, too. May the 4th be with you!