Aruncus dioicus - Goat's Beard
DESCRIPTION
Goat's BeardAruncus dioicus
Aruncus dioicus is a fantastic native with large, feathery blooms in early summer. The enormous plumbs of creamy white blossoms attract butterflies and other beneficial insects in vast numbers. The seeds of the female plants provide food for birds in the fall and winter. East to grow in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade.
BENEFITS
- Attracts butterflies, and other beneficial insects
- Host plant for the dusky azure caterpillars
- Superb yellow fall foliage color
- Dense shrub-like form provides shelter for birds
- Perfect for massing in shaded areas
- Native birds will feed on seeds of spent flowers
NATIVE INFO
Native Range
Alaska south to California along with the east coast states from Maine to Georgia, west to Wisconsin and Oklahoma.
Map Credit: The Biota of North America
Map Key: Green (native), Teal (native, adventive), Blue (present), Yellow (present & rare), Red (extinct)
Interesting Facts
Received the Royal Horticulture Society's Award of Garden Merit. In Italy the young shoots are eaten, usually boiled briefly in herb infused water, and then cooked with eggs and cheese.
GROWING TIPS
Aruncus dioicus prefers partial shade and consistent moisture, though a moist sunny site will work very well in cooler climates. Goat's Beard will survive periods of drought, but the foliage will brown around the edges at the first sign of deprivation.