perennial

Hillside Black Beauty

Actaea simplex 'Hillside Black Beauty'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

60 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Actaea simplex, commonly known as Bugbane or Black Cohosh, is a tall perennial with compound, palmate leaves and tall spikes of fragrant, white to cream-colored flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The cultivar Hillside Black Beauty is distinguished by its dark, nearly black foliage that provides striking contrast and enhances the visual appeal of its tall, airy flower spikes.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking dark foliage and fragrant flowers, enhancing shade gardens.

Prefers shaded, moist environments, ideal for woodland settings.

Supports pollinators and attracts birds with seeds and flowers.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Prune back dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth.
Monitor for pests and diseases, treating as needed.

Pro Tip

Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch annually to retain moisture
Prune dead stems in early spring

Don't

Avoid dry, exposed locations ❌
Do not over-fertilize to prevent weak growth
Never allow soil to stay waterlogged

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderDark foliage backdropFragrant shade garden

Companion Plants

Astilbe Hosta Fern Trillium Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hillside Black Beauty questions

What zones can Hillside Black Beauty grow in?

Hillside Black Beauty is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hillside Black Beauty deer resistant?

Yes — Hillside Black Beauty is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hillside Black Beauty bloom?

Hillside Black Beauty typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hillside Black Beauty need full sun?

Hillside Black Beauty does best in part shade.