Troubleshooting
Yellow Barrenwort problems — and how to fix them
Yellow Barrenwort (Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Flowers hidden by old evergreen foliage
The most common mistake is failing to cut back the previous year's semi-evergreen leaves before flowering. Clip all foliage to the ground in late winter (February in the UK) to fully display the spring flower display.
Leaf scorch in sunny or exposed positions
Despite its toughness, 'Sulphureum' dislikes hot afternoon sun or exposed, windy sites. Brown leaf margins indicate too much sun or wind. Relocate to a more sheltered shaded position if the problem persists.
Root competition with surface-rooting trees
Beneath beech, cherry, or Norway maple the competition for water and nutrients is fierce. Improve soil with organic matter at planting and water regularly through the first two seasons to help the plant compete.
Prevent yellow barrenwort problems before they start
Most yellow barrenwort issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Yellow Barrenwort problems — FAQ
Why is my yellow barrenwort flowers hidden by old evergreen foliage?
The most common mistake is failing to cut back the previous year's semi-evergreen leaves before flowering. Clip all foliage to the ground in late winter (February in the UK) to fully display the spring flower display.
Why is my yellow barrenwort leaf scorch in sunny or exposed positions?
Despite its toughness, 'Sulphureum' dislikes hot afternoon sun or exposed, windy sites. Brown leaf margins indicate too much sun or wind. Relocate to a more sheltered shaded position if the problem persists.
Why is my yellow barrenwort root competition with surface-rooting trees?
Beneath beech, cherry, or Norway maple the competition for water and nutrients is fierce. Improve soil with organic matter at planting and water regularly through the first two seasons to help the plant compete.