epimedium

[ ep-uh-mee-dee-uhm ]

noun

, plural ep·i·me·di·ums.

1. any of various Old World plants belonging to the genus Epimedium, of the barberry family, having small, pinnate leaves and spurred white, yellow, or reddish flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of epimedium¹

< New Latin (Linnaeus), Latin epimēdion < Greek epimḗdion a plant of uncertain identity, equivalent to epi- epi- + mḗdion plant of the genus Campanula

Example Sentences

He has grown more than 125 varieties and species of Epimedium, for example, and his current collection hovers around 75.

From Seattle Times

She’s accepted the realities of gardening a shady woodland, and now grows ferns, hydrangeas, Japanese maples, epimedium and hellebores that suit its conditions.

From Seattle Times

At the moment, the Issima team is “chasing an orange thistle,” Ms. Johnston said, referring to their work with the genus Centaurea, and Mr. Bowen admits to “fooling around with Epimedium for cut flowers.”

From New York Times

I love using Epimedium as a low-maintenance, low-water plant.

From Seattle Times

Her spring compositions feature such plants as epimedium, irises and lily of the valley.

From Washington Post