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Description
Aruncus Aethusifolius, also known as Dwarf Goat’s Beard, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Japan and Korea and is widely cultivated for its beautiful white or cream-colored flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant grows up to a height of 8-12 inches and spreads up to 12-18 inches wide, forming a beautiful mound of fern-like foliage. It is an ideal plant for rock gardens, borders, and woodland gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Aruncus |
Appearance
Dwarf Goat’s Beard has dark green, fern-like leaves that grow up to a length of 6-8 inches. The leaves are deeply dissected, giving them a lacy appearance. The plant produces beautiful, creamy white flowers that grow up to 6 inches long and have a feathery appearance. The flowers bloom in early summer and last for several weeks. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade but can also tolerate full sun.
Care Guide
To care for Dwarf Goat’s Beard, follow these guidelines:
Water: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. However, in hot climates, it may need protection from the afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: Dwarf Goat’s Beard is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dwarf Goat’s Beard is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can sometimes be affected by spider mites, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Dwarf Goat’s Beard is native to the mountainous regions of Japan and Korea and grows in woodland areas, along streams, and in rocky crevices. It prefers moist soil and partial shade but can also tolerate full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dwarf Goat’s Beard grow in containers?
A: Yes, Dwarf Goat’s Beard can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dwarf Goat’s Beard?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall does Dwarf Goat’s Beard grow?
A: Dwarf Goat’s Beard grows up to a height of 8-12 inches.
Q: How often should I water Dwarf Goat’s Beard?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Aruncus genus include:
- Aruncus Aethusifolius
- Aruncus Dioicus
- Aruncus Sylvestris
- Aruncus X Stellaris
References
- “Aruncus Aethusifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278232. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
- “Aruncus Aethusifolius.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13187/aruncus-aethusifolius/details. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
- “Dwarf Goat’s Beard.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/aruncus-aethusifolius-dwarf-goats-beard. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
