Epimedium

/ˌɛpɪˈmiːdiəm/ noun

Definition

A genus of flowering plants known as barrenwort or fairy wings, with delicate heart-shaped leaves and spurred flowers, widely used in ornamental gardening.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-' (upon, over) + 'medion' (perhaps related to medieval Latin 'media'), though the exact etymology is uncertain; the name may reference the plant's growth habit.

Kelly Says

Epimedium was named 'barrenwort' because people once believed it made people infertile—but the truth is almost opposite! It's now valued in traditional medicine and is one of the most shade-tolerant plants gardeners can use.

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