Aruncus is an impressive plant producing feathery white plumes in summer above attractive, large leaves. It’s native to the deciduous woodlands of North America, as well as Europe and Asia and it favours a partially shaded spot with moist soil, but will also do well in full sun as long as it is kept well hydrated. The ideal position for Aruncus would be a woodland garden, or in a border in dappled shade next to a pond or stream. The flowers are highly beneficial for pollinators.

How to plant

• Plant Aruncus bare roots in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
  
• Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (or 15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost.
  
• Plant with the roots submerged and with the top of the root system with buds just level with the soil surface. Any shoots or leaves which have emerged already should be left exposed above the soil surface.
  
• Grow them on in a sheltered area outside. They can be transplanted into suitable growing positions after 2-4 months or once growth is established and the plants easily come out of the temporary pots with the soil held together by the roots.
  
• When planting into the garden, choose a position in a border in full sun, partial or full shade and a rich, moist soil. Ensure the area is dug over and cleared of weeds first.
  
• Keep space clear around the young plant and ensure neighbouring plants or weeds are not overcrowding it.
  
• This perennial is fully hardy to around -15C and does not require winter protection in most areas.
  
• Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.

Aftercare

• Foliage should start to emerge after a few weeks of planting, flowers appear in summer every year but sometimes they do not flower in the first year while the plant is settling in.
  
• Aruncus dies back completely in autumn. You can cut back the leaves and flower stems down to around 5cm above soil level in late autumn/winter and the plant will remain dormant over winter. The following spring, new growth will emerge from the base.
  
• Aruncus form a clump over time which can be lifted and divided between autumn and early spring if needed.
  
• Faded flower stems can be cut back anytime during the season, but allow the leaves to remain until they start to die back in autumn.
  
• Apply a mulch of organic matter in winter or early spring to improve soil quality.