Woodland Elf' Barrenwort (Epimedium)

(Barrenwort) Epimedium 'Hugs and Kisses' is a charming, shade-loving perennial known for its delicate blooms and attractive foliage. In early to mid-spring, it produces a profusion of soft pink and raspberry-colored flowers with long, graceful spurs that seem to float above the foliage. While not known for attracting pollinators in large numbers, bees may visit during its bloom period. This variety grows to a tidy height of 8-12 inches and spreads 18–24 inches, forming a dense, mounding clump that's perfect for groundcover, woodland gardens, or shady borders. The foliage emerges with a reddish tint in spring, matures to rich green, and may take on bronze or red hues in fall, adding multi-season interest. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, Epimedium 'Hugs and Kisses' thrives in part shade to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is deer and rabbit resistant, making it ideal for critter-prone areas. This low-maintenance perennial is drought tolerant once established, and while it does not rebloom, its foliage remains attractive through the season. 'Hugs and Kisses' adds a touch of elegance and soft color to shaded spaces and pairs well with other shade loving perennials such as heuchera, hakonechloa, and hostas, 'Hugs and Kisses' Epimedium is a Proven Winners® Perennial.