Butter-yellow flowers follow soon thereafter, popping up and nodding just above the foliage. Slow to establish, but worth the wait. Epimediums readily co-exist with the roots of neighboring trees and shrubs, and thrive beautifully in dry shade. Lovely planted along the woodland path, or near the front of the border. A thick mass of low foliage of 5-11 leaflets persists in the winter woodland garden.
Leaves turn deep burgundy red in winter, then resume their medium green color in late spring.
Scouring Rush, Horsetail Rigid shoots resemble miniature bamboo and colonize rapidly to cover wet and poorly drained areas. The hollow stems have intriguing black horizontal bands evenly spaced along bright green stems. Even though this 2-3' wetland native is very aggressive, it is useful for its distinctive form and simplicity in the garden. Plant in full sun to light shade. The stems add distinction to floral arrangements.