Orange Queen Epimedium (Barrenwort)
Epimedium ‘Orange Queen’
A standout for shady spaces, Orange Queen Epimedium brings a rare splash of coppery-orange blooms to the spring garden. Delicate flowers hover above heart-shaped foliage that emerges with reddish tones in spring, matures to green, and develops warm bronze hues in fall.
This tough, low-maintenance perennial is perfect for difficult shade areas, offering season-long interest and dependable performance. Its compact, spreading habit makes it an excellent groundcover under trees or along shaded borders.
🌸 Why You’ll Love It
Unique coppery-orange flowers for shade
Multi-season foliage interest (red → green → bronze)
Excellent groundcover for dry shade
Deer and rabbit resistant
Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established
🌿 Plant Details
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Coppery-orange
Foliage: Heart-shaped; red-tinged in spring, green in summer, bronze in fall
Habit: Low, spreading groundcover
Light Requirement: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter preferred
Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Maintenance: Low
📏 Size
Height: 15–20 in
Width/Spread: 10–15 in
Spacing: 12–15 in
🌼 Uses
Shade groundcover
Woodland gardens
Under trees
Border edging
Mixed shade beds
✔ Garden Benefits
Deer and rabbit resistant
Excellent for dry shade
Multi-season interest
Low maintenance
💡 Garden Tip:
Cut back old foliage in late winter to allow the colorful new growth and flowers to shine in spring.