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Epimedium 'Amber Queen'
barrenwort
Garden origin; parent species native to China
Overview
Epimedium spp. 'Amber Queen' is a semi-evergreen perennial forming a clump 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) tall and 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) wide. It is a complex hybrid that includes Epimedium wushanense in its parentage. Branched flower stems rise above the foliage carrying 20-40 amber to apricot-yellow flowers, each 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) across with long, slightly downcurved spurs. Bloom begins in mid-spring and, unlike single-flush Epimedium spp., continues in flushes for 8-12 weeks into early summer. Leaves are divided into lance-shaped leaflets 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long with spiny-toothed margins; new growth emerges bronze-tinted and matures to mid-green. In zones 7-9 foliage persists through winter; in colder zones it dies back. The tall flower stems can splay outward in heavy rain. Clumps expand slowly by short rhizomes, reaching mature size in about 3 years.
Native Range
A garden hybrid raised in cultivation that does not occur in the wild. Its parent species, including Epimedium wushanense, are native to China.Suggested Uses
Grown in shaded borders, woodland edges, and as groundcover beneath deciduous shrubs, spaced 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart. Combines with ferns, hostas, and spring bulbs. Tolerates dry shade once established, including competition from tree roots.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'6" - 2'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Blooms from mid-spring into early summer, roughly April to June, in repeated flushes over 8-12 weeks. Bloom is earlier and shorter in hot climates and more prolonged where spring is cool and moist.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Amber to apricot-yellowFoliage Description
Mid-green, bronze when youngGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in partial to full shade in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Watering through the first season aids establishment; mature clumps tolerate dry shade once rooted, though growth slows in extended drought. An annual autumn mulch of leaf mould maintains soil moisture. Cutting old foliage to the ground in late winter exposes the spring flowers; left in place, old leaves can hide the blooms. Vine weevil and occasional mosaic virus are the main problems reported. Foliage may scorch in full sun or windy sites.Pruning
Cut all foliage to ground level in late winter, before flower stems emerge, so the flowers are visible. No other pruning is required. Spent flower stems can be removed after bloom.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
winter
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons