About

Aruncus dioicus is a tall herbaceous perennial, reaching heights of up to 2 meters. This plant creates a dense clump of elongated leaves made up of multiple pairs of leaflets. In the autumn, the leaves transition to shades of yellow and orange. During early to mid-summer, delicate feathery plumes of small white flowers emerge, rising above the foliage; female plants produce flowers that are more green and droop slightly. Both flower types are suitable for arrangements. While this species supports pollinators, ensure you have a male plant for optimal pollination.

About the genus

Aruncus consists of perennial plants that grow in clumps and spread through rhizomes. They feature leaves that are divided pinnately and produce tiny, creamy-white flowers, which are typically unisexual, arranged in sizable terminal panicles.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native to
Europe, Asia, North America

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist, fertile soil in full sun or partial shade
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to blackfly and sawfly larvae
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free