Actaea simplex Atropurpurea Group
bugbane (syn. Cimicifuga)
Formerly known as a Cimicifuga, this bugbane is a dramatic, stately perennial, with its slender, bottlebrush-like, pale pinkish-white flowers, which...
9cm pot
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Illuminate and fragrance late-autumn with slender branching stems of ivory-white flowers and, in a more-open position, the foliage will darken to black
Plant description
Formerly known as a Cimicifuga, this bugbane is a dramatic, stately perennial, with its slender, bottlebrush-like, pale pinkish-white flowers, which appear in September and October above clumps of lobed, purple-flushed leaves.
The foliage colouring of these seed-raised plants will vary somewhat from plant to plant, but also external factors such as the time of the year and the available light will play a part.
It's also a useful plant because it comes into its own late in the season, and it will flourish in damp shade. It can also get quite tall, so try it towards the back of a border, and avoid removing the faded flowerheads as they provide an interesting silhouette in the winter garden.
Dr James Compton (the man responsible for their classification), has said that these plants prefer atmospheric moisture to thrive. 'Think of trillium country', he said, 'on the acid side of neutral, light and leaf-mouldy but able to retain moisture'.
The foliage colouring of these seed-raised plants will vary somewhat from plant to plant, but also external factors such as the time of the year and the available light will play a part.
It's also a useful plant because it comes into its own late in the season, and it will flourish in damp shade. It can also get quite tall, so try it towards the back of a border, and avoid removing the faded flowerheads as they provide an interesting silhouette in the winter garden.
Dr James Compton (the man responsible for their classification), has said that these plants prefer atmospheric moisture to thrive. 'Think of trillium country', he said, 'on the acid side of neutral, light and leaf-mouldy but able to retain moisture'.
Eventual height & spread
Plant features
Position
Light shade
Rate of growth
Fast-growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Actaea simplex Atropurpurea Group:
Wear protective gloves and other protective equipment when handling Actea.
When planting, incorporate some well-rotted organic matter with the soil and backfill around the plant. Water well until established.
Taller plants in exposed positions may need support, and congested clumps can be lifted and divided in late autumn or early spring.
When planting, incorporate some well-rotted organic matter with the soil and backfill around the plant. Water well until established.
Taller plants in exposed positions may need support, and congested clumps can be lifted and divided in late autumn or early spring.
Please note:
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
Warning
Humans: Harmful if eaten
