Blooming considerably more than others, Goatee Goat’s Beard, Aruncus, brings super flower power to the garden. Extremely floriferous, Goatee springs to life with clouds of dense cream flower panicles in early summer. Looking like a robust fern, the dissected dark green leaves provide interest before and after bloom. This perennial tolerates a variety of light conditions, from full sun to full shade. Consistent moisture will be needed to keep Goatee looking its best in full sun; plants will be slightly taller in shade.

Goat’s Beard is naturally at home in shady moist woodland areas but also grows in drier spots once established. Highly valued as a striking specimen. Goat’s Beard easily mixes well with other shade-loving perennials. The ferny foliage looks great next to plants with large leaves like Hosta or Ragwort. Although the foliage is incredibly dissected, it produces a thick, substantial clump for a solid presence. Goat’s Beard is similar in appearance to Astilbe in the garden, but it is more drought-tolerant. Where it is placed should be well thought out, as it does not like to be moved.

Plant in soil that has been amended with compost or organic matter in shade to part shade. For best bloom plant in a spot with morning sun with afternoon shade, or filtered light. It can be grown in full sun but will require consistent moisture. In full shade the plant will have a more open habit and bloom sparsely. Although drought tolerant, plants prefer moist soil. For best results keep the plant well watered when it is setting up buds and blooming. It benefits from deep soakings during dry spells.