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Bugbane

Botanical Name
Actaea racemosa / Actaea simplex
Hardiness
Zones 3 to 8
Height
4 to 6 feet (in flower)
Width
2 to 4 feet
Flowers
Mid to late summer:
Light
Full sun to part shade
Soil
Moist, organic
Planting & Care
  • Bugbane will show leaf scorch when soil is too dry
  • Prefers moist soils rich in organic matter
  • Protect from winds which could damage foliage and knock over flower spikes
  • Bugbane is slow to establish, proper watering will help this process
  • Site where bright flower spikes will stand out
  • Divide in spring or fall for propogation, but otherwise can be left undisturbed
Problems
None serious
Varieties
  • Brunette - dark purple foliage and stems, cream flowers
  • Hillside Black Beauty - white fragrant flowers 4-6', purple foliage

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