Species

6 other cultivars

perennial

Bugbane Black Beauty

Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Beauty'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Black Cohosh, is a perennial herb characterized by tall, arching stems with compound leaves and tall spikes of white flowers that bloom in late summer.

The cultivar Black Beauty is distinguished by its dark, nearly black foliage and striking white flower panicles, creating a dramatic contrast and ornamental appeal in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural foliage and late summer blooms, ideal for shaded gardens.

Deer and rabbit resistant, low-maintenance perennial that enriches soil health.

Supports pollinators and native wildlife, offering nectar for insects and birds.

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

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.
Support tall stems to prevent flopping during heavy blooms.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and health.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Divide every 3–4 years for vigorous growth
Support tall stems to prevent flopping

Don't

Avoid dry, well-drained soils ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch foliage
Skip pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenWildlife-friendly border

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta AstilbeSolomon's seal Trillium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bugbane Black Beauty questions

What zones can Bugbane Black Beauty grow in?

Bugbane 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 Bugbane Black Beauty deer resistant?

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

When does Bugbane Black Beauty bloom?

Bugbane 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 Bugbane Black Beauty need full sun?

Bugbane Black Beauty does best in part shade.