Native Plants for Wet Soils : Aruncus dioicus – Goat’s Beard
Maryland Native Plants for Wet Soils
Aruncus dioicus – Goat’s Beard
Aruncus dioicus, also known as goat’s beard best grown in moist, fertile, organically rich soils in full sun to part shade. Foliage decline can occur rapidly if soils are permitted to dry out. With consistent moisture, it performs well in full sun in the northern portions of its growing range. It prefers part shade in the southern part of its growing range. Removing faded flower stalks will not prolong bloom, but may improve plant appearance, particularly if a ground cover look is desired. On the other hand, flower stalks on female plants may be left in place to enjoy the continuing ornamental effect of the dried seed plumes. Plants can be slow to establish, so initial growth may be slow.
Goat’s beard is a tall, erect, bushy, clump-forming plant typically growing 4-6′ high which features pinnately compound, dark green foliage and showy, plume-like spikes of tiny, cream colored flowers which rise well above the foliage in early to mid summer, creating a bold effect. This rose family member is somewhat similar in appearance to astilbe. Dioecious (separate male and female plants) as the species name suggests. Plants with male flowers (numerous stamens per flower) produce a showier bloom than plants with female flowers (three pistils per flower). Host plant to the Dusky Azure Butterfly.
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Common Name: Goat’s Beard
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Rosaceae
Height: 4.00 to 6.00 feet
Spread: 2.00 to 4.00 feet
Bloom Time: April to May
Bloom Description: Cream
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium to wet
Maintenance: Low
Suggested Use: Rain Garden
Flower: Showy
Tolerate: Rabbit
