Known by many as the ultimate groundcover for dry shade, the increased availability of the useful genus epimedium is expanding its role in the garden. The delicate beauty that these plants and their flowers possess belies their surprisingly tough, long-lasting nature and their ability to perform in the ornamental shade border. As Karen Perkins shares the history and culture of this up-and-coming genus, from its growth habit and propagation to management of pests and diseases and possible planting combinations, attendees will be inspired to experiment with the ever increasing selection of these shade-loving plants. Plants will also be available for sale after the talk. The event, co-sponsored by the Berkshire Botanical Garden and the Berkshire Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society, will take place Saturday, August 6 at the BBG. Sponsor members $15, nonmembers $20. Register online at www.berkshirebotanical.org.
Karen Perkins is owner of Garden Vision Epimediums, a mail-order nursery offering 160 species and varieties of epimedium along with other choice shade perennials. She lectures frequently at botanic gardens throughout New England.
