Cimicifuga racemosa is a well-known wild plant of wet shade with tall spikes of "ghostly" white flowers and is commonly known as either "Bugbane" or "Black Cohosh". The hybrids of this 6-ft. native are better for gardens, but carry much of the "wild" charm. "Brunette" refers mostly to this hybrid's leaves which are bronze-colored, rather than the usual green. The flowers are still white, but with a purplish blush. The whole plant is smaller than the native, but the flower spikes are still tall.
To further confuse things, the boanical name of this group has been changed lately from Cimicifuga to Actaea. In any case, the plants are wonderful for spots in the garden that have some shade and plenty of moisture. And the flowers are dramatic.
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Botanical Name
: Cimicifuga racemosa
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Color
: White flowers and burgundy foliage
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Bloom Time
: Mid to late summer
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Sun/Shade
: Partial shade
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Advantages
: Deer resistant
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