Actaea simplex Brunette

Supplied as Bare Root

Actaea simplex ‘Brunette’ (formerly Cimicifuga) is a stunning, shade-loving perennial grown as much for its dramatic foliage as its flowers. Deep chocolate-purple leaves form an elegant clump, topped in late summer and autumn with tall, airy spires of delicately scented, soft pinky-white blooms that float above the foliage like candles. It’s perfect for brightening shadier borders and woodland-style planting, and it pairs beautifully with ferns, Hostas and Japanese anemones for a lush, sophisticated look.

RHS Award of Garden Merit.

This plant/cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. 

Planting Instructions

When to Plant: 

Plant in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in partial shade or dappled shade (it can tolerate sun if the soil stays reliably moist). Plant in fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Ideal for woodland borders, shady mixed borders, or alongside ponds and streams (not waterlogged).

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown (growing point) about 2–5 cm below soil level.
• Spacing: Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart to allow room to mature.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with plenty of well-rotted compost or leaf mould to hold moisture and feed the plant.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Actaea does not like to dry out—mulching helps conserve moisture.

Aftercare Tips:

• Mulch in spring with compost or well-rotted manure to retain moisture and improve soil.
  
• Water during dry spells, especially in summer.
  
• Leave stems standing over winter if you like, then cut back to ground level in late winter/early spring.
  
• Actaea can take a year to properly establish—avoid moving it once settled.

Top Tip:

Actaea ‘Brunette’ is perfect for extending the season in shadier areas—pair it with ferns, Hostas, Heuchera and Japanese anemones for a long-lasting display, and keep it well-watered in summer for the best flowering.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
August - October

Height:
36–48" (90–120cm)

Position:
Partial shade / dappled shade

Hardy Perennial