What: Epimedium grandiflorum “Lilafee” has multitudes of dainty magenta flowers with white-tipped spurs hover amidst colorful new leaflets in springtime. The shape of the blooms have garnered two nicknames: fairy wings and bishop’s hat. The foliage of “Lilafee” eventually turns all green by summer on this compact clumping perennial and, with cold temperatures in autumn or winter, often turns red.
Where: “Lilafee” grows best in rich, well-drained soil in light to open shade; morning sun and afternoon shade is excellent. Dappled to deep shade will greatly reduce flowering. Size:
Size: Fairy wings will grow to be 1 foot tall with a spread of 1 foot when mature.
Care: Water bishop’s hat regularly – at least once a week – or more frequently for lush, robust plants. This cultivar has deciduous foliage that dies back in autumn and can be cut back any time after that, but be sure to cut the leafy stems to the ground before new foliage and flowers begin to emerge in springtime.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
