Epimedium grandiflorum 'Purple Prince' (Barrenwort)

Epimedium grandiflorum 'Purple Prince' is a semi-evergreen perennial with heart-shaped, deer resistant leaves that emerge as a rose purple color, eventually maturing to green with bronze or purple tinges. In the spring months, 'Purple Prince' forms an 8" tall clump of foliage and then produces small spires of spurred, dark purple flowers -- more vibrant than 'Pierre's Purple' -- with hints of white; after flowering, new foliage emerges and brings the plant's height to around 18", covering the old flower stalks and producing a number of leaves which turn red in the fall.

Epimedium grandiflorum refers rich, well-drained soil on the dry side and performs best in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade, but will do well in full shade as well. 'Purple Prince' can be cut back in late fall to produce fresher new foliage in the spring.