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Black Negligee Actaea Plant

12.99
  • - Baneberry, Bugbane
  • - Height: 4-5 feet
  • - Hardiness Zone: 5-8
  • - Exposure: Part Shade
  • - Bloom Time: August-September
  • - Each Quart contains 1 Black Negligee Actaea Plant
Plant Features

Black Negligee Actaea, commonly called bugbane, bears tall, bottle-brush-like, creamy white flowers that can grow as long as 24 inches atop the sharply cut, serrated black foliage; the tip-top of each flower spire can be 5 or 6 feet tall! The leaves of this Baneberry will first emerge as a luscious emerald green before maturing to that prized purplish-black that sets off the flowers and berries so well. 

Our Actaea (Baneberry or Bugbane) Plants are cultivated with care, free from harmful pesticides, ensuring they are a safe and dramatic addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

Planting Instructions:

  • - Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
  • - Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for mature growth

Soil Preparation:

  • - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-6.5
  • - Prefers rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter; tolerates moist, humus-rich soil

Watering Specifics:

  • - Water deeply when first planted, keeping the soil consistently moist
  • - Once established, Actaea thrives with regular watering, especially during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

  • - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth
  • - Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce flower production

Pruning and Training:

  • - Deadhead spent flower spikes to maintain appearance and promote blooming
  • - Cut back the plant in late fall to prepare for the next season’s growth

Additional Pest Management:

  • - Actaea is generally pest-resistant, though monitor for slugs or snails in moist conditions
  • - Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, especially in damp climates

Blooming Indicators:

  • - Blooms in late summer to fall with tall spikes of fragrant white flowers that contrast beautifully against dark foliage

Temperature Tolerance:

  • - Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, tolerates cool temperatures and thrives in woodland-like conditions

Companion Plants for Actaea:

  • - Hosta: Complements Actaea’s dark foliage with bold, broad leaves
  • - Astilbe: Adds soft, feathery flowers that contrast well with Actaea’s tall flower spikes
  • - Ferns: Provides textural contrast to Actaea’s bold foliage
  • - Heuchera: Adds colorful foliage that pairs well with Actaea’s shade-loving nature
  • - Brunnera: Offers heart-shaped leaves that enhance the visual interest of Actaea’s dark foliage and white blooms
Attribute name Attribute value
Plant Needs
Sunlight 2-3 hours morning or late afternoon sun
Soil Moisture Moist to Dry
Soil Properties Well-drained
Attribute name Attribute value
Plant Characteristics
Mature Spread 18-24 inches
Habit Upright
Flower Color White
Foliage Color Mahogany
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Styles Cottage Garden, Woodland Garden
Plant Used for Aesthetic Appeal, Borders and Edging, Texture
Pet Friendly No
Plant Type Hybrid
Tolerates Sandy soil
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