Species bugbane
Tall brown stems topped with spires of fragrant white-maroon flowers and black-green leaves.

bugbane

Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group)

Also Known As - cimicifuga
Bugbane (Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group)) is an amazing plant that blooms with unique and beautiful foliage. Its feathery leaves are deep burgundy, almost black, and really stand out. This perennial also has tall and delicate spires of white fragrant flowers that will attract butterflies to any garden. It is a medium-sized deciduous shrub that typically grows to around 5ft in height, making it perfect for use as a backdrop to an outdoor space. Plus, the foliage turns into a charming purple color in the fall, making it an eye-catching feature in any yard. Bugbane truly is a sight to behold.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Summer

Sun:

filtered shade,part sun/part shade,full sun

Soil:

Humus rich, Well-drained

Fruits:

purple,black Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple,burgundy

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bugbane should be watered weekly in the spring and early summer, and less frequently in the summer months. Soak the soil when you water, and allow it to dry out almost completely before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. In the autumn and winter, water only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure that the soil has good drainage and does not become waterlogged.

sunlight

Bugbane (Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group)) is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows best in partial sun to shade. For maximum blooming, it should be planted in a spot where it will receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. While bugbane can tolerate full sun, it will benefit from some light afternoon shade, especially in hot climates. In cooler climates, it will tolerate more sun, but its blooms may fade if the plant gets too much direct sun.

pruning

Bugbane should be pruned just after blooming in late summer and/or early fall. Start by cutting the stems back by 1-third to 1-half of their height. This will help promote the plant's shape and keep it looking its best. If desired, further pruning can be done in early spring, cutting back the dead and/or dying foliage. However, if the plant is doing well and responding well to its current environment, then less pruning may be necessary. Pruning for bugbane should be done selectively and sparingly to keep the plant looking attractive.

Propagation

Season

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

Harvest Fruit

Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

Hardiness Map

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