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.

More in the Actaea genus

Browse all Actaea