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Description
Actaea simplex James Compton, also known as Kamchatka bugbane, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to Japan, Korea, and eastern Russia. The plant produces tall spikes of white or pinkish flowers in late summer or early fall, which are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The leaves are large and divided into smaller leaflets, giving the plant an attractive appearance. The plant is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes due to its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Actaea |
Appearance
The Actaea simplex James Compton plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The plant produces tall spikes of white or pinkish flowers in late summer or early fall, which are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The leaves are large and divided into smaller leaflets, giving the plant an attractive appearance. The foliage is dark green and has a shiny appearance. The plant is known for its ornamental value and can be grown in gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
The Actaea simplex James Compton plant requires moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers a slightly acidic soil. It is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Actaea simplex James Compton plant is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. These diseases can be treated with fungicides. The plant may also attract slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or handpicking.
Habitat
The Actaea simplex James Compton plant is native to Japan, Korea, and eastern Russia. It grows in moist, shady areas such as forests and along streams. The plant is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes due to its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Actaea simplex James Compton plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Can the Actaea simplex James Compton plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is given partial to full shade.
Q: How often should the Actaea simplex James Compton plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall can the Actaea simplex James Compton plant grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Actaea racemosa
- Actaea pachypoda
- Actaea rubra
- Actaea matsumurae
References
- “Actaea simplex.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j970.
- “Actaea simplex James Compton.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2542/kamchatka-bugbane/.
- “Actaea simplex.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/113569/Actaea-simplex/Details.
