Species bugbane
Tiny white blooms, growing on a green stem and green leaves.

bugbane

Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl'

Bugbane, scientific name Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl', is an amazing plant species. It produces delicate sprays of lacy, white flowers on tall, unbranched stems every summer. These flowers are versatile and can be used in beds and borders, as well as in rock gardens and woodland settings. The plant has attractive foliage in the form of deeply-cut, dark green leaves, which contrast nicely with its white flowers. The best part of this species is its fragrant blooms, which attract butterflies and other pollinators. In other words, bugbane is an awesome plant, not only because of its beautiful blooms, but also because of its versatility and charming scent.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

part shade,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green,white

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bugbane (Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl') should be watered deeply but infrequently. It thrives in moist soil, so aim to water once or twice a week in the summertime, but be sure to check the soil moisture as the plant's needs may differ depending on the season and weather. In the winter, water less often, only when the soil is completely dry. Always use water at room temperature.

sunlight

Bugbane (Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl') prefers bright, indirect sunlight for optimal health. When offered too much direct sunlight, its foliage may scorch. For this reason, it is best to provide morning sun and light shade during the afternoon when the sun is at its strongest. An area that receives 3 or 4 hours of morning sun and light, dappled shade the remainder of the day is optimal. In any season, the afternoon sun should be filtered by a tree or fence.

pruning

Bugbane (Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl') should be pruned in early spring, and only minimally so. Pruning can include the removal of dead, diseased, or damaged growth, but should only be done to shape the shrub or direct growth away from walkways or other areas on the landscape. Similarly, thinning can be done to remove excess overcrowded growth, but it's important to ensure that you have an equal balance between the tops and bottoms of the plant. Bugbane can be pruned as much as 1-third of its total height with only minimal effects.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bugbane typically starts flowering in late summer to early fall, usually between August and September.

Starts Flowering

Bugbane typically starts flowering in late summer to early fall, usually between August and September.

Hardiness Map