Epimedium diphyllum
Native to S. Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, Japan. A deciduous species, unique for having its small leaflets in pairs, hence the species name (di=two, phyllum= leaf). Flowers small, simple (without spurs) and normally white. Clump forming, although we do have a few clones with rhizomes that spread 2-3” per year. Blooming later than most species, it begins to flower just as E. grandiflorum varieties are finishing up. Performs poorly in alkaline soils.
Epimedium diphyllum Cc. 940545
Epimedium diphyllum (Cc. 940545)
Only 5 to 10" tall in bloom, produces dainty, spur-less white, bell-shaped flowers over an extended period in spring for a very delicate effect. One of several clones imported from Japan. Semi-evergreen. Not available this year.
Epimedium diphyllum "Large Leaf Form"
E. diphyllum “Large Leaf Form” (Cc. 950062)
With the largest plant habit of E. diphyllum by far, its bolder leaflets are upwards of 4” long, 1-1/2” wide. White flowers slightly larger than other clones, on stems 10-12” tall. Semi-evergreen.
Epimedium diphyllum 'Nanum'
E. diphyllum ‘Nanum’ (Cc. 950054)
A sparkling gem at only 2-4" tall at first bloom, and covered in white bell-shaped flowers. Ultimately reaches 8" high. Ideal for shady rock gardens, path edges or troughs.
Epimedium diphyllum 'Variegatum'
E. diphyllum ‘Variegatum’ (Cc. 950164)
(Synonyms: 'Shiro tiri fu', 'Shiro chiri fu')
Friends Roy Herold and the late Gerry Anderson bought this plant back from Japan for Darrell in 1995. The leaflets are variously stippled—some leaves are green with flecks of white, others white flecked green. The white variegation is enhanced with 2-3 hours of direct daily sun in our nursery. Dainty white flowers hover above leaves reminiscent of small spattered painter’s palettes. Foliage gradually turns greener through the season, but the variegation is still evident in the fall as the foliage turns to rusty red. 12" tall.