Goat's Beard
Goat's Beard is a large shrub-like perennial with feathery plumes of white flowers rising above the foliage, in late spring and early summer. A slow spreader by rhizomes, it can eventully form a large patch but is not an aggressive spreader by any measure …
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Medium, Moist, Wet |
| Sun Exposure | Partial, Shade |
| Height | 4' - 6' |
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | May, June |
| Spacing | 4' - 6' |
| Zones | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
| Root Type | Rhizome |
| Benefits | Pollinators, Host Plant, Deer Resistant |
Goat's Beard (Aruncus dioicus) is a large shrub-like perennial with feathery plumes of white flowers rising above the foliage in late spring and early summer. A slow spreader by rhizomes, it can eventually form a large patch, but is not an aggressive spreader by any measure. Goat’s Beard does best in moist, rich soil in partial shade. It can be planted in sunny areas provided the soil is consistently moist. Full sun is acceptable in more northerly areas, but shade is best in hotter more southerly regions.
The large shrub-like form creates an excellent backdrop for the shade garden. It works equally well in the perennial border, or as a transitional plant at the woodland edge. The showy flowers make a bold statement as an accent plant, too. Combine it with with Iris, sedges and other ground covers in a lightly shaded setting.
The spent stems can be cut back in the fall or early spring. A natural leaf mulch will create the most favorable conditions for this woodland native. A host plant for the Dusky Azure butterfly, Goatsbeard is both deer and rabbit resistant.
