Overview

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Cimicifuga, part of the Ranunculaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Russia, China, Korea and Japan.

In the garden

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' is a herbaceous perennial in the buttercup family originating from Russia, China, Korea and Japan. At roughly 1.5 metres tall it provides upright structure in shady parts of the garden where taller plants are useful for layering. Its natural range indicates an ability to survive cool to cold winters, which is reflected in its H7 hardiness rating (equivalent to very cold UK conditions) and USDA zones 4–8. Select a location in partial or full shade and plant into soils that remain moist but are well drained; sandy, loamy or clay soils all suit it provided moisture is consistent. In practice that means positioning away from sunlit, dry banks and ensuring the root run keeps an even supply of moisture through the growing season. Give each plant room for its 1.5 m height when spacing, and consider placing it behind lower perennials so it can form a vertical backdrop. In UK gardens it works where shade and moisture coincide: shaded borders, the rear of mixed beds, or near the base of light-canopied trees. Because of its height, pair it with lower, shade-tolerant plants so its stems rise through the border rather than sit isolated in front.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cimicifuga

Sunlight
partial shade, full shade
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
herbaceous perennial
Height
1.5 m
Native to
Russia, China, Korea, Japan

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub'?

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' prefers partial shade and full shade.

What soil does Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' need?

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' grow?

Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Cimicifuga simplex 'Braunlaub' hardy in the UK?

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

From the Fenn Plants journal

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