Bugbane

(Actaea dahurica)

Bugbane (Actaea dahurica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Actaea dahurica, commonly known as Bugbane, is a deciduous perennial herb native to forest understories and moist, shaded areas in Northeastern Asia, including parts of China, Korea, and Russia. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a width of 3 feet (0.9 meters). The plant features compound leaves and tall, slender racemes of small, numerous, white to cream flowers that bloom in late summer to fall, providing a showy display. The flowers are noted for their strong, pleasant fragrance.

Bugbane is valued for its tall, graceful flower spikes and its ability to thrive in shaded garden spots where other plants may struggle. It is often used in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized areas. While it prefers consistently moist soils, it is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. Actaea dahurica is not typically associated with serious pest or disease problems, but it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions. It is also deer resistant, making it a good choice for areas with high deer populations.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 2.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Cream
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Forest understories and moist, shaded areas in Northeastern Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Xing An Sheng Ma, 눈빛승마

Scientific Names: , Actaea dahurica, Cimicifuga dahurica, Actaea pterosperma, Actinospora dahurica, Actinospora pterosperma, Cimicifuga dahurica f. mascula, Cimicifuga dahurica var. fertilis, Cimicifuga dahurica var. mascula, Thalictrodes dahurica,

GBIF Accepted Name: Actaea dahurica (Turcz. ex Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Franch.