Actaea racemosa 'Pink Spike' - Cimicifuga

🌿 Characteristics

Type: Herbaceous perennial
Common name: Cimicifuga, Pink Spike Bugbane
Scientific name: Actaea racemosa 'Pink Spike'
Flower color: Soft pink, in dense, slender spikes
Mature height: 0.90–1.20 m (3–4 ft)
Mature width: 0.60–0.75 m (2–2.5 ft)
Habit: Upright, elegant, forming structured clumps
Flowering period: August to October
Exposure: Partial shade to full shade
Watering needs: Moderate, prefers moist soil
Soil type: Rich in organic matter, well-drained, slightly acidic
Hardiness zone: Zone 3 to 8
Drought tolerance: Moderate, prefers humidity
Pollinator-friendly plant: Yes
Attracts pollinators: Yes, especially bees
Toxicity to animals: Slightly toxic

✂️ Care

Plant in partial to full shade in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly to maintain constant moisture, especially during the growing season. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter at planting and in the fall. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and cut stems back to the ground in late winter.

This hardy and elegant perennial thrives in shady gardens and woodlands. Its floral spikes offer a spectacular late-season bloom, ideal for perennial beds, woodland borders, and natural-style gardens. Very little maintenance required once established.