Bugbane (Actaea Simplex) is a perennial herb in the Ranunculaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and partial shade or full shade or dappled_shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Actaea simplex is a herbaceous, rhizomatous perennial known for its dramatic foliage and fragrant bottle-brush flowers.

Bugbane

Bugbane

Actaea Simplex

Actaea simplex is a herbaceous, rhizomatous perennial known for its dramatic foliage and fragrant bottle-brush flowers.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Partial Shade, Full Shade, dappled_shade
Hardiness Zones
3-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, peaty, well-drained
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, fragrance, vertical interest

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Bugbane

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Bugbane
Bugbane detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Ranunculaceae
Genus:Actaea