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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee'

Black Negligee Bugbane

Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee'
Family
Ranunculaceae
Height
3 to 5 feet
Width
1 to 2 feet
Flower color
Creamy white with pink tinge
Foliage color
Deeply cut purplish-black leaves
Bloom time
Late summer to early fall
Light
Partial shade to full shade
Water
Prefers moist, well-drained soil
Maintenance
Low; protect from hot afternoon sun
Growing zone
USDA Zones 3 to 9
Wildlife
Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

About this plant

Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee' is a dramatic cultivar known for its deeply divided, purple-black foliage that provides bold contrast in shaded garden spaces. This selection offers a lace-like appearance that adds depth and movement to the landscape. Its dark leaves maintain their color throughout the growing season, making it a reliable choice for creating contrast against lighter-colored plants.

In late summer to early fall, 'Black Negligee' produces tall, elegant spires of fragrant, pale pink to white flowers that arch gracefully above the foliage. The bottlebrush-like blooms are highly scented, attracting pollinators and adding a delicate touch to the plant's otherwise moody aesthetic. The combination of deeply colored leaves and airy, late-season flowers makes it an excellent choice for woodland gardens and shaded borders where it contributes both texture and seasonal interest.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens

Companion plants

Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Rogerson Clematis Garden.