Bugbane (Actaea spp., formerly Cimicifuga)

Sun Needs:

• Part shade to full shade
• Can tolerate morning sun if soil remains moist

Bloom Time:

• Late summer to early fall (August to October)

Size:

Height: 3 to 6 feet tall, depending on the variety
Width: 2 to 3 feet spread

Attributes:

• Tall, airy flower spikes with fragrant, bottlebrush blooms
• Attractive, fern-like foliage—some varieties have dark purple or bronze leaves
• Excellent for adding vertical interest in shade gardens
• Attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies
• Deer and rabbit resistant
• Prefers moist, rich, well-drained soil
• Slow to establish but long-lived once settled
• Adds elegance and drama to shade or woodland borders

Companion:

• Astilbe
• Ferns
• Hosta
• Brunnera
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)
• Toad Lily (Tricyrtis)
• Ligularia
• Bleeding Heart (Dicentra)
• Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum)
• Heuchera (Coral Bells)