Actaea Silver Dance

Supplied as Bare Root

Actaea simplex ‘Silver Dance’ is a beautifully elegant, late-season perennial with finely divided foliage that’s often flushed with silvery tones, topped in late summer and autumn with graceful, airy spires of softly scented, creamy-white “bottlebrush” flowers. Perfect for bringing height, movement and a light, shimmering touch to shadier borders, it’s a standout in woodland-style planting and looks superb with ferns, Hostas and other shade lovers. Once established it’s long-lived, but it appreciates moisture-retentive soil and a little patience in year one

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare roots in autumn through to early spring while dormant, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in partial shade or dappled shade with moisture-retentive, humus-rich soil. Actaea enjoys consistent moisture and is ideal for woodland borders, shady mixed beds, or planting near ponds and streams (but not in standing water).

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown (growing point) sits about 2–5 cm below the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart to allow room to mature.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with 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 dislikes drying out—mulch helps conserve moisture and keeps roots cool.

Aftercare Tips:

• Mulch in spring with compost or well-rotted manure to retain moisture and improve soil.
• Water during dry spells, especially in summer, to prevent stress.
• Cut back old stems to ground level in late winter or early spring.
• Avoid moving the plant once established—Actaea can be slow to settle in and prefers to be left undisturbed.

Top Tip:
Actaea ‘Silver Dance’ is perfect for brightening shady areas. Plant it with ferns, Hostas, Astrantia and Japanese anemones for a long season of interest, and keep the soil consistently moist for the best display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
August - October

Height:
36–48" (90–120cm)

Position:
Partial shade / dappled shade

Hardy Perennial