Aruncus, commonly known as goatsbeard, is a genus of elegant, flowering perennials that bring a touch of woodland charm to gardens with their graceful, astilbe-like plumes and attractive foliage. These majestic plants, members of the Rosaceae family, are admired for their hardiness, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a variety of garden settings. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for Aruncus in your garden.

What Makes Aruncus Special? Aruncus possesses a unique combination of characteristics that make it a standout in the plant world:

• Showy Blooms: Aruncus produces tall, feathery plumes of creamy white flowers that rise above the foliage in late spring and early summer, creating a dramatic and elegant display. The flowers are not only beautiful but also attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, contributing to the biodiversity of your garden.
• Attractive Foliage: The foliage of Aruncus is equally appealing, with its finely divided, fern-like leaves that provide a lush, textural backdrop for the blooms. The leaves are typically a deep green color and remain attractive throughout the growing season, adding a touch of woodland beauty to the garden.
• Hardiness and Adaptability: Aruncus is known for its hardiness and adaptability, thriving in a wide range of climates and soil conditions. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Aruncus requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all experience levels. It is relatively drought-tolerant and does not need frequent fertilization or pruning.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Aruncus is generally avoided by deer and rabbits, offering a reliable and resilient option for gardens prone to browsing pressure.

Description and Details Aruncus is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back to the ground each winter and re-emerges in the spring. It typically grows in upright clumps, with multiple stems arising from the base. The height of the plant varies depending on the species, ranging from 2 to 6 feet tall.

The leaves of Aruncus are pinnately compound, meaning they are divided into smaller leaflets that are arranged along a central stem. The leaflets are typically ovate or lance-shaped, with toothed edges. The foliage is usually a deep green color and provides a lush texture to the garden.

The flowers of Aruncus are small and numerous, borne in large, feathery plumes that rise above the foliage. The flowers are typically creamy white, although some species have a slightly pinkish tinge. The plumes can reach up to 20 inches in length and create a dramatic display in the garden.

Varieties of Aruncus The number of species within the Aruncus genus is debated by botanists, with some recognizing only one species, Aruncus dioicus, while others recognize up to four distinct species. Here are some of the most common varieties:

• Aruncus dioicus (Goatsbeard): This is the most common species, with a wide distribution across Europe, Asia, and North America. It is known for its tall, elegant plumes of creamy white flowers and attractive foliage.
• Aruncus aethusifolius (Dwarf Goatsbeard): This species is native to Korea and is much smaller than Aruncus dioicus, typically reaching only 8 to 12 inches in height. It is a popular choice for rock gardens and smaller spaces.
• Aruncus gombalanus (Yunnan Goatsbeard): This species is native to the mountains of northwest Yunnan and adjacent Tibet. It is less common in cultivation but offers unique characteristics.
• Aruncus sylvester (Asian Goatsbeard): This species encompasses the widespread Asian forms of A. dioicus.

In addition to the species, there are a number of cultivars of Aruncus available, including:

• 'Kneiffii': A more compact form with finely divided foliage.
• 'Zweiweltenkind' ('Child of Two Worlds'): A shorter and sturdier hybrid.
• 'Glasnevin': A compact selection from the National Botanic Garden of Ireland.
• 'Hillside Gem': Noted for its finely divided leaves.

Native Habitat Aruncus is native to mountainous damp woodland in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is typically found growing in moist, shady areas along streams, in woodlands, and on slopes.

Landscaping Design Tips Aruncus is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscaping designs. Its elegant plumes and attractive foliage make it a valuable addition to any garden. Here are a few landscaping design tips for using Aruncus:

• Woodland Gardens: Aruncus is a natural choice for woodland gardens, where it thrives in the dappled shade and moist soil. Combine it with other shade-loving plants, such as ferns, hostas, and astilbes, to create a lush and tranquil woodland setting.
• Borders: Aruncus can be used to create a dramatic backdrop in borders, adding height and texture to the garden. Its plumes rise above other plants, creating a focal point in the landscape.
• Naturalized Areas: Aruncus can be incorporated into naturalized areas, where it will blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Its ability to spread slowly by rhizomes allows it to naturalize over time, creating a sense of wild beauty.
• Water Gardens: Aruncus can be planted near water features, such as ponds or streams, where it will thrive in the moist soil. Its plumes add a touch of elegance to water gardens.
• Cut Flower Gardens: The plumes of Aruncus also make excellent cut flowers for bouquets and arrangements. Their long stems and feathery blooms add a touch of drama and sophistication to floral displays.

Planting and Care

Planting

• Timing: The best time to plant Aruncus is in the spring or fall.
• Location: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. While Aruncus can tolerate full sun, it generally prefers some shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: Aruncus prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting to improve drainage and fertility.
• Spacing: Space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.

Care

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist.
• Fertilizing: Aruncus does not require heavy fertilization. If desired, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flower plumes to prevent self-seeding and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back the stems to the ground in late fall or early spring to rejuvenate the plant.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Aruncus is a truly remarkable plant that offers a unique combination of beauty, hardiness, and adaptability. Its elegant plumes, attractive foliage, and low-maintenance nature make it a valuable addition to any garden. Whether gracing a woodland garden, adding drama to a border, or naturalizing in a meadow, Aruncus brings a touch of wild elegance to the landscape. By understanding its preferences for moist soil and partial shade, and by following the simple planting and care guidelines outlined in this article, gardeners can successfully cultivate Aruncus and enjoy its captivating presence for years to come.