In all these Epimediums the leaves are held on slender, stiff stems, at about the same level as the flowers, which in a few species can be hidden from view. A shearing in late February or early March clears the way for enjoyment of the fresh unfurling leaves and the beautiful small flowers. They look delicate, but they are tough. Vancouveria is a closely related genus.

Epimedium grandiflorum has relatively large white flowers, held on typically delicate-looking stems above the light green, mottled red, foliage.