How to Grow Constant Nymph
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Constant Nymph
Epimedium × versicolor 'Constant Nymph'
flowerConstant Nymph is a delicate hybrid epimedium (fairy wings) with distinctive small, spurred flowers that blend pink and cream colors. This evergreen perennial groundcover produces heart-shaped foliage that emerges bronze in spring and deepens with seasonal changes. It's an excellent choice for shaded woodland gardens and borders, offering year-round ornamental interest.
When should you plant Constant Nymph in your zone?
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Example Constant Nymph timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Constant Nymph
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Constant Nymph blooms
Around Nov 8≈ 365 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Constant Nymph dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, can tolerate zone 9 with afternoon shade
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Establishment
Spring to early summer (3-4 months)Newly planted rhizomes develop fine fibrous roots and initial shoots emerge
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Protect from hot afternoon sun first year. Mulch lightly with leaf mold.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summer (2-3 months)Bronze-tinted young foliage expands; heart-shaped leaves grow to full size
Water regularly; apply slow-release fertilizer in spring. Monitor for slugs and snails. Remove old or damaged foliage in early spring before new growth.
Flowering
April to May (4-6 weeks)Delicate pink and cream spurred flowers appear on thin, wiry stems above foliage canopy
Maintain consistent moisture during bloom. Flowers attract bees. No deadheading necessary. Enjoy blooms for 4-6 weeks.
Maturation & Foliage Display
June through autumn (4-5 months)Flower display fades; foliage deepens and hardens; plant becomes denser and fuller
Reduce watering slightly if established; allow to dry between waterings. Cut back any dead foliage. Apply balanced fertilizer in mid-summer.
Dormancy/Evergreen Rest
November through March (4 months)Foliage remains on plant; colors may shift to burgundy or darker green depending on winter severity
Minimal care needed. In late winter/early spring, cut back dead or damaged foliage before new growth emerges. No supplemental water needed in winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Hand-pick early morning or evening; use beer traps or copper barriers; encourage ground beetles; avoid excessive mulch depth
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Strong water spray; insecticidal soap if severe; encourage predatory insects
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Remove affected leaves; maintain plant vigor; systemic insecticide only if damage is severe
Uses
Pollinator Support & Bee Nectar
WildlifeConstant Nymph produces nectar and pollen that attracts native bees and other pollinators in spring. The delicate flowers provide an important early food source before many other plants bloom. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe airy flowering stems and delicate blooms work beautifully in spring bouquets and woodland-style floral displays. Flowers last 1-2 weeks in water with frequent refreshing. [source]
Traditional Chinese Medicine
MedicinalEpimedium species have been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries, with various cultivars valued for their bioactive compounds. Consult herbalists or medical professionals before internal use. [source]
Foliage for Pressed Flowers
CraftThe delicate heart-shaped leaves and small flowers press beautifully and retain color well, making them ideal for botanical crafts, herbals, and pressed flower artwork. [source]
Horticultural Ornament (Not for consumption)
CulinaryWhile some Epimedium species have traditional uses, Constant Nymph is primarily grown for ornamental purposes. Not typically used in culinary applications. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Epimedium is ornamental; no harvest needed. Cut stems for cut-flower arrangements in spring when flowers are in full bloom. Divide established clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate and propagate.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Epimedium is commonly called 'fairy wings' because its delicate spurred flowers resembles tiny fairy wings; the genus name comes from Greek mythology
- 🌱 The leaves of Epimedium contain a compound called icariin, which has been studied for potential health benefits and is why the plant is valued in traditional Asian herbalism
- 🌱 Constant Nymph is one of the more compact and densely-foliaged epimedium cultivars, making it ideal for small shade gardens where other varieties might spread too vigorously
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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