Goatsbeard (Aruncus dioicus) ah-RUN-kus dy-oh-EYE-kus Synonyms:  A. sylvester Genus:  Aruncus Goat's beard is a perennial native to eastern North America and parts of Europe and Siberia. It is grown for its tall stature (up to 6 feet) and showy, cream-colored plumes of flowers in summer. The effect is that of a giant astilbe. Plants with male flowers produce showier and more erect plumes than plants with female flowers, whose plumes are more pendent and less creamy-white. Grow in a woodland garden or moist border, or at waterside. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Tall, native perennial with showy plumes of creamy-white or greenish-white flowers in summer. Care:  Grow in moist, fertile soil in full or partial shade. This species can also tolerate drier conditions in full sun. Deadhead to control unwanted seedlings. Propagation:  Divide in early spring or fall. Sow seed in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Self-sows freely. Problems:  Generally easy to grow, but fly larvae and tarnished plant bugs may be problems.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color White Uses Beds and Borders, Waterside Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials