Actaea simplex (Atropururea Group) syn. Cimicifuga racemosa 'Atropurpurea', Cimicifuga racemosa 'Purpurea', Cimicifuga simplex 'Blackthorn Strain', Cimicifuga simplex var. simplex Atropurpurea Group

A clump-forming perennial with pinnate (leaves identical at opposite sides of the stem) leaves divided into ovate, deeply-toothed, bright green leaflets. Red stems carrying racemes (spikes) of white flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by (inedible) black-eyed, spherical white fruit. Atropurpurea Group are upright plants with brown-purple leaves and stems and in late Summer to early Autumn 'bottlebrush' spires of small, fragrant, white flowers that emerge from purpleish buds.

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  Partial shade

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  Frequent watering

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  Full Frost Hardy: 5F (-15°C)

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  Moist and free draining