About
Cimicifuga cordifolia is a species in the genus Cimicifuga, commonly known as Bugbane. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. When buying or cataloguing, confirm the botanical name on the label to distinguish this species from related taxa and cultivated varieties.
About the genus
The Cimicifugeae are a tribe of flowering plants belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, based on the now obsolete genus Cimicifuga. The name Cimicifuga means "bed bug repeller".
In the garden
Cimicifuga cordifolia sits within the genus Cimicifuga and the family Ranunculaceae and is usually offered under the common name Bugbane. Using the full botanical name when sourcing plants or checking records reduces confusion between species and named cultivars and helps you match the plant to supplier information. Cultivation requirements and performance vary between species and cultivars, so always rely on the specific guidance provided by the nursery or cultivar label rather than general assumptions. Before purchase, request written details from the supplier about soil preference, light, moisture and hardiness for the exact stock they are selling; reputable nurseries will supply provenance and cultivation notes. When planning planting positions, compare the labelled size and seasonal behaviour of the particular stock with the space and companions you have available. Record the supplier’s cultivar name and any batch or accession numbers for future reference. Finally, double-check that the plant tag or invoice shows the epithet cordifolia to ensure you have this species rather than a different Cimicifuga.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Cimicifuga genus
- Cimicifuga dahuricaBugbane
- Cimicifuga racemosaBlack cohosh
- Cimicifuga simplexBugbane
- Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub'Bugbane
- Cimicifuga simplex 'Elstead Variety'Bugbane
- Cimicifuga simplex 'White Pearl' or 'Armleuchter'Bugbane
- Cimicifuga foetidaBugbane
- Cimicifuga simplex var. ramosaBugbane