Re: Epimedium

In a message dated 3/21/2003 1:19:08 AM Central Standard Time,
akloski@JPS.NET writes:

> I guess my definition of invasive depends on how fast a plant grows,
> and how difficult it is to remove.  I unsuspectingly planted an Obedient
> Plant a couple of years ago and was surprised this month to see it  now
> extends about 6 feet  in one direction.  I decided to leave it until
> next year, and after I see how difficult it is to remove, I will know if
> I think it is too invasive.
>
> Anelle
>

Anelle, I grow seven different Epimedium, a small selection for sure, but
they are the most commonly available types.  I would call none of them
invasive - I even wish they were.

They do form what I would call slowly spreading clumps, that when grown well
spread out about 4 inches wide each year.  They have woody underground stems
but no runners like Obedient plant.  Obedient plant is one of those plants
than move about once establish very well-attractive plants but tends dominate
there area in a few years.

Think of Epimedium as a Hiosta: they get bigger every year but the clump is
always were you planted it.

They are not hard to dig up and thin out-have to use a sharp knife if its an
old established clump.

I love all my Epimedium and wish I had more, they can be slow to take off for
the first two years.  But once established are hardy and tough plants-even
when the soil becomes dry.


The flowers are attractive in the spring-but I grow mine mostly for the
attractive clumps of leaves.

Paul
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