Cimicifuga foetida (Bugbane) — Perennial

Overview

Cimicifuga foetida is a perennial in the genus Cimicifuga, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Cimicifuga foetida grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and shade gardens. It is native to China, Mongolia and Siberia.

About

Cimicifuga foetida is a perennial in the buttercup family that reaches about 1.5 m and produces upright flowering spikes; the flowers have a slightly unpleasant, foetid smell. It favours shady sites and will tolerate partial to full shade. The plant prefers consistently moist but well-drained soils of sandy, loamy or clay textures and suits acidic to neutral pH. Give it a sheltered or semi-exposed position on a north, east or west aspect.

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 foetida is a tall perennial in the Ranunculaceae, native to parts of China, Mongolia and Siberia. It typically grows to around 1.5 m and carries erect flower spikes; the blooms are notable for a slightly unpleasant, foetid scent that influences siting decisions. As a species from cooler temperate regions it tolerates a range of soils and conditions found in UK gardens. Plant into moist but well-drained soil — it adapts to sandy, loamy or clay textures and prefers acidic to neutral pH. Position in partial shade or full shade on a north, east or west-facing aspect; sheltered or semi-exposed sites are acceptable. It is fully hardy in the UK (H7) and corresponds to USDA zones 3–7, so it withstands severe winter cold where soil does not remain waterlogged. Use Cimicifuga foetida at the rear of a shaded border, in a woodland garden or in any shade garden where its height provides vertical structure. Because the flowers have a foetid smell, avoid placing it beside close seating or near main patio areas; instead site it where foliage and form can be appreciated without bringing people too close to the scent.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cimicifuga

Sunlight: Partial shade, Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Acidic, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North, East, West
Exposure: Sheltered, Semi-exposed
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Cimicifuga foetida size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Woodland gardens, Shade gardens
Native to: China, Mongolia, Siberia
Fragrance: Slightly unpleasant, foetid smell

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cimicifuga foetida

Cultivation: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter.
Pruning: Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is slow and difficult.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cimicifuga foetida?

Prefers moist, humus-rich soil; avoid waterlogging; mulch in winter.

Where is the best place to plant Cimicifuga foetida?

Cimicifuga foetida prefers partial shade and full shade. It suits sheltered and semi-exposed positions.

What soil does Cimicifuga foetida need?

Cimicifuga foetida is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Cimicifuga foetida?

Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.

How big does Cimicifuga foetida grow?

Cimicifuga foetida reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Cimicifuga foetida hardy in the UK?

Cimicifuga foetida has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Cimicifuga foetida?

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is slow and difficult.

More in the Cimicifuga genus

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