Epimedium Spine Tingler

Available late May

Epimedium Spine Tingler
Barrenwort

'Spine Tingler' is aptly named for its dark green leaves that have spiny margins. These leaves take on a slight blush tint in the spring. Soft yellow flowers bloom on compact plants in mid to late spring. Unlike other Epimedium that send flowers first, followed by foliage, 'Spine Tingler' sends flowers and foliage up at the same time. Discovered by Darrell Probst, it is a selection of a still unnamed species of Chinese fairy wing that Darrell discovered on a remote cliff in Sichuan, China. It is listed as Zone 5 but has survived in our garden.

  • Height: 20-25 cm (8-10 in)
  • Spread: 45-60 cm (18-24 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 4-8
  • Sun or Shade: part to full shade
  • Bloom Time: mid to late spring
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: yellow
  • Critter Resistance: deer

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Epimedium is a tough plant that will survive in nearly any shady location. Though it prefers rich, moist, woodland soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, it will adapt to a wide range of conditions. It will even grow under large, thirsty trees. This plant is a slow grower, so mulching around the plants will help to keep the weeds away. Trimming off all of the old foliage in late winter will make room for a fresh flush of leaves and may increase flower production. Epimedium can be divided in early fall and is rarely troubled by pests or diseases.

Print