perennial

Bugbane Brunnette

Cimicifuga racemosa 'Brunnette'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Actaea racemosa, is a tall, deciduous perennial with gracefully arching stems, compound leaves, and bottlebrush-like clusters of white flowers that bloom in late summer to fall. The 'Brunette' cultivar features dark, bronze-tinged foliage that provides a striking contrast to its white flower spikes, adding ornamental value throughout the growing season.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides tall, elegant white flowers that add texture and interest to shaded gardens.

Prefers moist, rich soil, making it ideal for rain gardens or woodland settings.

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

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 prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Fertilize with compost in early spring for best growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune dead stems in late fall or early spring before new growth.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil in shaded or partly shaded areas.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead stems after flowering

Don't

Avoid dry, compacted soil ❌
Don't expose to full sun 🌞
Skip fertilizing in late fall

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

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with fernsWildlife-friendly shade garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Solomon's Seal Toad Lily

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bugbane Brunnette questions

What zones can Bugbane Brunnette grow in?

Bugbane Brunnette 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 Brunnette deer resistant?

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

When does Bugbane Brunnette bloom?

Bugbane Brunnette 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 Brunnette need full sun?

Bugbane Brunnette does best in part shade.