Black Negligee Bugbane
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Negligee'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers humid conditions
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation
The Story
Plant Bio
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Negligee' is known for its striking dark foliage and tall, elegant flowers that rise above the leaves. This cultivar features almost black, deeply cut leaves, providing a dramatic contrast in shady gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded or partially shaded location with rich, well-draining soil.
- Tuck dormant root crowns into the soil, ensuring the crown is just below surface level.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, reapply annually.
- Fertilize in early spring with organic compost or balanced slow-release fertilizer.
- Prune back old stems in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges.
Pro Tip
Plant in a shaded area with moist, humus-rich soil for best growth and vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late fall or early spring
- Fertilize in early spring with organic compost
- Monitor for pests and diseases regularly
Don't
- Avoid excessive sunlight which can scorch the foliage ❌
- Do not allow soil to dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause weak growth
- Avoid disturbing roots during the growing season
- Do not neglect pest and disease monitoring
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black Negligee Bugbane questions
What zones can Black Negligee Bugbane grow in?
Black Negligee Bugbane 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 Black Negligee Bugbane deer resistant?
Yes — Black Negligee Bugbane is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Negligee Bugbane bloom?
Black Negligee Bugbane typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Negligee Bugbane need full sun?
Black Negligee Bugbane does best in part shade.
More Cimicifuga to compare
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Cimicifuga racemosa 'Pink Spike'
Chocoholic Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Chocoholic'
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Snakeroot'
Purple-leaved Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Atropurpurea'
Bugbane Brunnette
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Brunnette'
Bugbane Black Beauty
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Beauty'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Black Negligee Bugbane with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
