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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee'

Black Negligee Bugbane

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.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Prefers moist, well-drained soil

Bloom time

Late summer to early fall

Find this plant

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.