Epimedium

These rhizomatous perennials are great value with very colourful, many-flowered sprays, of spider-like blooms. These are generally held above the foliage, during spring. Flowers range in size, with this exaggerated by long, curving spurs, often a contrasting colour to other parts of flowers. Plants can be either deciduous or evergreen, but regardless the foliage, can be colourful in autumn, or even more so in spring. Good for a shady spot, with some tolerating dry conditions. There are around 30 different species, many in China, with an ever increasing range of excellent hybrids being developed.