Cimicifuga racemosa Atropurpurea - Bugbane

Cimicifuga racemosa 'Atropurpurea', also known as Actaea simplex Atropurpurea Group, is a beautiful perennial with lush purple fern-like foliage that is so dark it appears almost black. It truly shines in late summer when it adorns itself with large, fragrant inflorescences that resemble silver candles. Vigorous, hardy, and tolerant of summer drought, this medicinal plant haunts the clear understory of woodlands, revealing many secrets. This majestic plant slowly establishes itself, forming bushy clumps with a striking appearance, making it a valuable addition to the back of a border.

Cimicifuga racemosa belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to forests in the eastern and central regions of North America. It boasts many medicinal properties, which have been utilised for a long time. 'Atropurpurea' is the dark purple form of this majestic perennial. Growing from a knotty rhizome with fibrous roots arranged in compact masses, this plant slowly forms bushy clumps reaching a height of 1.5m (5ft) when flowering, with a minimum spread of 60cm (24in). Its stems are covered with large, compound leaves that are finely cut and as elegant as fern fronds, sometimes reaching a length of 40cm (16in). They have a very dark purple colour that appears black in shade and against the light. The flowering occurs in late summer, with large terminal inflorescences in cream-white or pinkish spikes that are either erect or arching. They consist of small, highly fragrant flowers. This flowering is highly attractive to bees and butterflies, but not everyone appreciates its scent.

It thrives in partial shade, in the dappled light of a clear understory or at the edge of a forest. This species tolerates summer drought and root competition quite well. Its striking silhouette and bright flowers will create a beautiful backdrop for perennials that have finished blooming in late summer. Its dark foliage pairs well with the pink and blue stars of asters. This magnificent plant will also make a striking focal point when planted in a large pot on a patio.

Cimicifuga racemosa was used by Native American peoples to facilitate childbirth and combat menstrual disorders. Recent research has shown that it contains a substance with estrogenic effects. It is currently included in various herbal preparations used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, among other uses.