Aruncus aethusifolius
Aruncus aethusifolius photo courtesy of Walters Gardens

Dwarf Goat's Beard

Aruncus aethusifolius is a miniature selection with the same traits as Aruncus dioicus but at one third the size. The lovely ferny foliage becomes red in the fall. This aruncus provides an excellent contrast to the bolder hosta foliage and is also at home in the rock garden. The creamy, feathery spikes resemble astilbe flowers. It makes an excellent edger and can also be incorporated into containers.

  • Height: 25 - 30 cm (10 - 12 in)
  • Spread: 30 - 41 cm (12 - 16 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 2
  • Sun or Shade: sun to partial shade
  • Bloom Time: summer
  • Leaf Colour: dark green
  • Bloom Colour: cream
  • Critter Resistance: deer

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Dwarf Goat's Beard grows best in moist, humus rich soil. It prefers a lightly shaded locations where it gets protection from the hot afternoon sun. In deep shade the plant will have an open habit and flowering will be very sparse. It is disease and insect resistant and seldom needs dividing so it is definitely an easy care plant.