Goat's beard - Aruncus dioicus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Goat's beard

Also known as: Buck's-beard

Aruncus dioicus is commonly known as goat's beard, buck's-beard, or bride's feathers. The Latin name Aruncus dioicus means 'having the male reproductive organs on one plant, and the female on the other.' It has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Scientific classification

Species

Goat's beard (Aruncus dioicus)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

0.5 mm to 1.5 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Cream, Yellow

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Goat's beard

Distribution of Goat's beard

Distribution Map

Goat's beard is native to most parts of Eurasia. It has been introduced to northern Europe, Australia, and northeast North America. This plant prefers moist woods, meadows, and riverbanks and is a popular garden plant in cooler climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp woods, shady places, by streams, mountainous areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Goat's beard grows tall, so it is a good choice in areas where a backdrop for showier plants is needed. It tolerates shade and wetter soils well; this makes it great in a woodland garden or in lower areas near water that don’t get as much sun.

Symbolism

Love and strength

Name Story

Goat's beard: The word “Aruncus” comes from the Greek word aryngos meaning "goat's beard" which refers to the plume of flowers. The bi-pinnately compound leaves are toothed and the lower leaves tend to be larger than the higher leaves.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Goat's beard, including the following common varieties :

Goat's beard 'Horatio'Aruncus 'Misty Lace'

Quickly Identify Goat's beard

Tall stature of 3-6 feet (91-183 cm), creating a bushy appearance.

Creamy-white flowers in large plume-like clusters, blooming from May to June.

Diminutive seed capsules with 2-4 seeds, blending with foliage.

Bi-pinnately compound dark green leaves, with lanceolate leaflets and serrated margins.

Lower leaves larger than upper ones, enhancing lush foliage.

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Care Guide for Goat's beard

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Goat's beard thrives in moist woodland conditions, preferring evenly moist soil and demonstrating moderate drought tolerance once established. Weekly watering is recommended for optimal growth, and mulching helps retain soil moisture during the active growing season, making outdoor cultivation ideal for this species.

Fertilize: For goat's beard, use a balanced fertilizer annually in early spring to enhance growth and flowering. Apply lightly around the base, watering thoroughly afterward. Adjust feeding during growth stages, with a post-bloom top-up for roots. Novice gardeners should prefer slow-release formulas to prevent over-fertilization.

Pruning: Goat's beard thrives with proper pruning techniques, optimal in early to late spring before new growth. Remove dead stems and trim spent blooms post-flowering to encourage growth and airflow. This maintenance enhances structural integrity and promotes denser foliage for a healthier, more attractive plant.

Propagation: Propagation of goat's beard is most effective through seed sowing in spring. The process is simple, with indicators of success being visible seedlings and new growth. No further propagation tips are necessary.

Repotting: Repot goat's beard every two years to support its bushy, vertical growth up to 6 feet (1.8 m), ideally in early spring. Choose a large, deep pot for root expansion. After repotting, maintain moist soil and provide partial shade for optimal growth.

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Images of Goat's beard

Distribution of Goat's beard

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Goat's beard

Care Guide for Goat's beard

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