Aruncus Aethusifolius

Dwarf Goat's Beard

A compact, clump-forming perennial valued for its feathery white flower plumes in early summer and finely divided foliage that turns attractive bronze to reddish tones in fall. Smaller and neater than traditional goatsbeard, it’s ideal for borders and woodland edges.

Key features



Width: 12–18 in (1–1.5 ft)



Height: 10–18 in (0.8–1.5 ft) (flowers slightly taller)



Flower color: Creamy white



Bloom time: Late spring to early summer



Foliage: Fine-textured green; excellent fall color



Form: Dense, rounded mound



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade to full sun (best with afternoon shade in warm climates)



Soil: Moist, well-drained; rich, humus soils preferred



Water: Moderate; does not like prolonged drought



Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Landscape use



Front to mid-border perennial beds



Woodland and shade gardens



Edging and mass plantings



Cottage and naturalistic gardens



Notes



More compact and refined than Aruncus dioicus



Deer resistant



Attractive seed heads add texture after bloom



Excellent foliage contrast with hostas and ferns

Plant type

Perennial

Height

10-18"

Width

12-118"

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full sun to part shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Loamy well-drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Compact, Rounded

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No