Epimedium x youngianum 'Royal Flush' (Barrenwort)
Epimedium x youngianum 'Royal Flush' is an especially showy hybrid cultivar of barrenwort, a semi-evergreen to evergreen perennial that loves dry shady conditions. Noted for its green and red-tinted foliage, the 'Royal Flush' cultivar is also well-regarded for its compact size of just 8-14" tall as well as its delicate, light-purple flowers that bloom in the early spring. While many barrenwort varieties are strong contenders for hardiness and ornamental value, 'Royal Flush' puts it all on the table, with consistent, low-maintenance growth habit and longer blooming flowers than other similar hybrids.
Epimedium x youngianum 'Royal Flush' prefers partial to full shade in fertile soils on the medium to drier side; once established, 'Azusa' is drought tolerant and spreads easily by rhizomes to form small colonies up to about 2' wide without becoming too invasive, perfect for tamping down weed activity in shade and part shade gardens. 'Royal Flush' barrenwort is best used in shady woodland gardens and in rock gardens, for forming small borders along walkways, or for accent planting underneath larger trees or shrubs. Many barrenworts are semi-evergreen to evergreen in environments with mild winters, which means visual appeal year round.