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Aruncus dioicus (Goatsbeard, Goat's beard)

Aruncus dioicus Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner

(Based on 1 user review)

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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Aruncus dioicus ah-RUN-kus dy-oh-EYE-kus Common Name: Goatsbeard, Goat's beard Synonyms: A. sylvester, Spiraea aruncus Genus: Aruncus
Goat's beard is a perennial native to eastern North America and parts of Europe and Siberia. It is grown for its tall stature (up to 6 feet) and showy, cream-colored plumes of flowers in summer. The effect is that of a giant astilbe. Plants with male flowers produce showier and more erect plumes than plants with female flowers, whose plumes are more pendent and less creamy-white. Grow in a woodland garden or moist border, or at waterside.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Tall, native perennial with showy plumes of creamy-white or greenish-white flowers in summer.
 Care: Grow in moist, fertile soil in full or partial shade. This species can also tolerate drier conditions in full sun. Deadhead to control unwanted seedlings.
 Propagation: Divide in early spring or fall. Sow seed in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Self-sows freely.
 Problems: Generally easy to grow, but fly larvae and tarnished plant bugs may be problems.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Dry to Medium
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Native; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Spring; Spring; Summer
Flower Color White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Waterside
Style Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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