Aruncus dioicus

Bride's Feathers, Goat's Beard

A bold, large-scale native perennial prized for its dramatic, feathery white flower plumes and lush, fern-like foliage. One of the best plants for creating a woodland or shade-garden statement, Aruncus dioicus adds height, texture, and presence where many perennials cannot compete.

Key features



Width: 3–5 ft



Height: 4–6 ft (flowers may reach 6+ ft)



Flower color: Creamy white



Bloom time: Late spring to early summer



Foliage: Large, finely divided, deep green



Form: Upright, clump-forming



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial



Note: Dioecious (male plants have showier flowers)



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade to full shade (tolerates sun with ample moisture)



Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained; prefers humus-heavy soils



Water: Moderate to high; dislikes drought



Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–7



Landscape use



Woodland and shade gardens



Back of perennial borders



Naturalized landscapes



Along streams or moist areas



Large-scale cottage gardens



Notes



Native to North America, Europe, and Asia



Excellent architectural plant for shade



Deer resistant



Cut back after flowering for a tidier appearance



Male plants are generally more ornamental than females

Plant type

Perennial

Height

4-6'

Width

3-5'

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Specimen

Shape

Clump, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No