Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Brunette'

Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Brunette'

Tall, fluffy, pale spikes of flowers bloom above dark, diamond-shaped leaves in late summer; we have many different cultivars of Actaea around Wisley, including in the Mixed Borders and on Battleston Hill, but for en masse planting of 'Brunette' visit the new Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden.

Vital statistics

Common name

Baneberry, bugbane

Family

Ranunculaceae

Height & spread

1-1.2m (3-4ft) high

Form

Rhizomatous perennial

Soil

Moist, fertile, humus-rich soil

Aspect

Partial shade

Hardiness

Fully hardy

Actaea

This is a genus of 27 species of woodland perennials with short rhizomes from temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. They bear compact, fluffy racemes of small white flowers with prominent stamens, followed by longer clusters of colourful berries. They are ideal for a woodland garden, or in a shady mixed or herbaceous border. The berries are highly toxic if ingested. The genus Cimicifuga, which lacks fleshy fruit is now generally included in Actaea.

Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Brunette'

This species is a clump-forming perennial with light green to purplish green basal leaves 30-75cm (1ft-2¹/₂ft) long, composed of 27-81 ovate to rounded, irregularly lobed leaflets. In early autumn arching stems bear white flowers, 2cm (1in) long in racemes up to 30cm (1ft) long.

Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Brunette' has dark, brownish purple foliage, purple stems and compact racemes to 20cm (8ins) long of purple-tinted, off-white flowers.

Cultivation

• Grow in moist, fertile, preferably humus-rich soil in partial shade.
• Provide support.

Propagation

• Sow seed in containers in a cold frame, as soon as ripe, to germinate the following spring, or divide in spring.

AGM

The RHS Herbaceous Plant Committee awarded Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Brunette' an Award of Garden Merit for its good foliage and late flowering.