AVAILABLE FROM SPRING 2026

Actaea ‘Brunette’ is a show-stopper perennial—moody, elegant, and a little gothic in the best way. It’s a cultivar of Actaea simplex (formerly Cimicifuga), commonly called bugbane or black cohosh.

• Foliage: Deep purple to near-black, finely cut leaves that look amazing all season. The dark color is the big reason people grow it.

• Flowers: In late summer to early fall, it sends up tall, airy spires of soft pink-white flowers that almost float above the foliage.

• Height & spread: About 4–5 feet tall when in bloom, 2–3 feet wide—so it adds real vertical drama.

Where it shines

• Perfect for shade or part shade gardens, especially woodland-style plantings.

• Looks incredible paired with lighter foliage (ferns, hostas, heucheras) for contrast.

• Great as a back-of-the-border plant or focal point in a shady area.

Growing conditions

• Light: Part shade to full shade (too much sun can scorch the leaves).

• Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil—this plant loves consistent moisture.

• Water: Regular watering, especially during dry spells.

• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8 (very cold-hardy).

Bonus traits

• Pollinator-friendly—bees love the late-season blooms.

• Deer- and rabbit-resistant (generally).

• Long-lived and low-maintenance once established.