Aruncus dioïcus var. kamtschaticus - Goat's Beard

Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticus is a particularly decorative form of dioecious goat's beard, rare in cultivation. Slightly more vigorous than the typical species found in wet high mountain woods, this one has a foliage of indisputable elegance: dark green, glossy, finely cut, it forms a decorative tuft. In early summer, numerous delicate, feathery flower heads emerge from creamy white vegetation. Light as a feather is ideal for a semi-shaded border in the company of plants that appreciate the same conditions.

Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticus belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a rhizomatous perennial plant, perfectly hardy, collected in Japan, in the centre of Hokkaido, at 2,000 metres (7 feet). It is most often found growing in humus-rich soils at the edge of forests, in partial shade, on fresh soil, and limestone subsoil. The goat's beard plant is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female parts on each plant. It takes a little longer to establish, showing slow growth, but it is a long-lived plant. At maturity, this goat's beard will measure approximately 80 cm (32in) in height and 50 cm (20in) in width. This plant grows from a thick base and spreads a little. It has long-stalked, finely-cut leaves that are light and dark green and turn yellow in autumn. 

The abundant flowering takes place in June-July but only lasts about a month. This plant has spikes that grow upright in a pyramid shape and are 35 cm (14in) long. The spikes branch out and have feathery flower heads where small, creamy white flowers bloom. The plant's above-ground parts dry up in autumn, losing its leaves.

A robust and hardy perennial, the dioecious goat's beard will thrive in a garden for a long time. It establishes itself permanently in any slightly moist fertile soil, provided it is not too heavy. It is particularly suitable for cottage gardens, natural gardens, woodland gardens, and water edges. Its bright flowering illuminates the semi-shade and adds lightness to all the plants that accompany it. It can be paired with Astilbes, digitalis, ferns, and other shade-loving perennials. 

 In large beds, it looks beautiful with hydrangeas, large hostas with blue-green foliage, or woodland perennial geraniums. This plant is excellent for growing beneath Japanese maples or Styrax foliage, and it's perfect for planting near high-traffic borders. Keep it in direct sunlight to help it grow.