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. "Pink Spike" is shorter (only to 4 or 5 ft.) and adds pastel color to the group for the first time. The whole plant is smaller than the native, and the pink spires of bloom add lovely accents to shady areas.
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
: Dark bronze to black foliage with soft pink flowers
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Spread/Width
: 15-18" wide
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Sun/Shade
: Partial to full shade
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Soil Preferences
: Needs moist, organically enriched soil.
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Advantages
: Deer Resistant
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