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Description
Actaea Simplex Brunette, also known as Fairy Candles, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). This plant is native to Japan and Korea and is often used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes. It produces tall spikes of small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The foliage is dark, almost black, and has a glossy appearance that adds to its overall appeal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Actaea |
Appearance
The Actaea Simplex Brunette plant can reach a height of 4-5 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. It has dark, almost black, glossy foliage that is deeply lobed and divided, giving it a delicate, lacy appearance. The flowers are small and white, arranged in tall spikes that can reach up to 2 feet in length. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall and the flowers are fragrant, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden. After flowering, the plant produces small, black berries that are toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
Actaea Simplex Brunette is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Actaea Simplex Brunette is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Actaea Simplex Brunette is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to some diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid planting the plant in crowded areas and make sure it has good air circulation. If you notice any signs of disease, remove infected leaves and stems immediately. The plant is also toxic if ingested, so keep it away from pets and children.
Habitat
Actaea Simplex Brunette is native to Japan and Korea and is often found growing in woodland areas, along stream banks, and in other moist, shady locations. It prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Actaea Simplex Brunette toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested. Keep it away from pets and children.
Q: Does Actaea Simplex Brunette attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of the plant attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Actaea Simplex Brunette?
A: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Q: How tall can Actaea Simplex Brunette grow?
A: The plant can reach a height of 4-5 feet.
Related Plants
- Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh)
- Actaea pachypoda (Doll’s Eyes)
- Actaea matsumurae (Kamchatka Bugbane)
References
- “Actaea simplex ‘Brunette’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a755.
- “Fairy Candles.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/106585/i-actaea-simplex-i-brunette/details.
