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Actaea simplex (Autumn bugbane, Autumn snakeroot)

Actaea simplex Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Monrovia



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Actaea simplex ak-TAY-ah SIM-pleks Common Name: Autumn bugbane, Autumn snakeroot Synonyms: Previously known as Cimicifuga simplex Genus: Actaea
This clumping woodland perennial with deep green foliage up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide bears spikes of  fragrant white flowers 1 to 2 feet long in fall. Cultivars exist with varying leaf colors and forms.
 Care: Likes rich, woodsy soils that stay moist, in partial to full shade. Foliage will suffer if soil is allowed to dry out. Provide shelter from strong winds.
 Propagation: Divide in spring.
 Problems: Rust and leaf-feeding insects may be problems.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Characteristics Fragrant Flowers; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Fall
Flower Color White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Poisonous
Style Shade, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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