Overview
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Actaea, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Actaea japonica var. acutiloba grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial belonging to the genus Actaea, known for its compound leaves and small, creamy-white flowers arranged in compact, upright racemes. This deciduous plant thrives in partial shade with a preference for east, north, or west-facing aspects and requires a sheltered position. It grows well in moist but well-drained sandy, loamy, or clay soils across a range of pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, offering interest in both spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Actaea
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Actaea japonica var. acutiloba
- Propagation
- Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn, Division in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Actaea japonica var. acutiloba?
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Actaea japonica var. acutiloba need?
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Actaea japonica var. acutiloba hardy in the UK?
Actaea japonica var. acutiloba has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Actaea japonica var. acutiloba?
Seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn, Division in early spring.
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- Actaea 'White Pearl'

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