Bishop’s Hat

(Epimedium pinnatum)

Bishop’s Hat (Epimedium pinnatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Epimedium pinnatum, commonly known as Bishop’s Hat, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the deciduous woodlands of the Transcaucasus to northern Iran. It typically grows to 30 cm (12 in) in height and width, featuring oval, hairy leaves that can provide ground cover. The plant is adorned with bright yellow spurred flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, offering a modest yet attractive display. The foliage may turn bronze in the fall, adding seasonal interest.

Bishop’s Hat is valued for its drought tolerance once established, making it a suitable choice for shaded rock gardens, woodland settings, and as ground cover under larger plants. It thrives in part shade to full shade and prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. While it is low-maintenance, it benefits from a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and protect the roots in colder climates. Gardeners should be aware that Epimedium can be slow to establish but will eventually form dense clumps that may require division. It is resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for a low-care garden.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Orange, Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen, Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

native to the deciduous woodlands of the Transcaucasus to northern Iran

Other Names

Common Names: Horny Goat Weed, Rowdy Lamb Herb, Caucasian Barrenwort, Gefiederte Sockenblume

Scientific Names: , Epimedium pinnatum subsp. colchicum, Epimedium pinnatum, Epimedium pinnatum f. integrifolium, Epimedium pinnatum var. integrifolium, Epimedium sieboldianum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Epimedium pinnatum DC.