Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’ – A Tough Yet Elegant Ground Cover for Shade
Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’ is a remarkable, shade-loving perennial that brings year-round interest with its stunning foliage and delicate spring flowers. In early spring, this variety bursts into life with a mass of bright yellow, star-like blooms that dance above its evergreen, heart-shaped leaves. The foliage emerges with coppery-red tones, maturing to rich green before turning bronze in autumn. Renowned for its resilience, ‘Frohnleiten’ thrives in dry shade, making it an excellent ground cover for under trees and shrubs.
Why Grow Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’?
Bright Yellow Spring Blooms – Airy, star-like flowers brighten up shady areas early in the season.
Everchanging Foliage – Coppery-red new growth, lush green summer leaves, and bronzed autumn tones add year-round interest.
Thrives in Dry Shade – One of the best ground covers for tricky areas beneath trees and shrubs.
Pollinator-Friendly – Early nectar source for bees and beneficial insects.
Tough & Low Maintenance – Drought-tolerant, deer- and rabbit-resistant, and easy to grow with minimal care.
Where to Site Your Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’
Ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, and underplanting beneath trees or shrubs. It also works beautifully as an edging plant along pathways, where its evergreen foliage provides structure and interest throughout the year.
How to Grow and Care for Your Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’
Soil – Prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil but tolerates dry conditions once established.
Light – Best in partial to full shade but can handle some morning sun.
Watering – Water well during the first year, but once established, it is drought-resistant.
Maintenance:
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Cut Back in Late Winter – Trim old foliage before new growth appears to showcase fresh leaves and flowers.
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Mulch Annually – A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and enrich the soil.
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Divide Every Few Years – If needed, divide in early spring to rejuvenate plants and spread their beauty.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Epimedium ‘Frohnleiten’ pairs beautifully with Hostas, Ferns, Brunnera, Pulmonaria, and Hellebores, creating a lush, layered look in shady spaces. For added texture, combine with ornamental grasses like Hakonechloa.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.