How to Care for Goats Beard

The scientific name of the goat’s beard plant is Aruncus dioicus and the plant is a pretty plant with an unfortunate name. The goat’s beard plant is related to other common perennials we grow in the garden, such the meadowsweet and spirea shrub. The goat’s beard plant appearance is similar to the elegant astilbe. The plant is a member of the rose family, it is obvious how it came by the name of goat’s beard plant, but the name does not describe its beauty. Actually the plant was around during Roman days and earned the name of Aruncus goat’s beard. The goat’s beard plant was named by Pliny during that era. The plant is also native to Japan and North America. As with many native plants, the plant is very easy to care for. Continue reading to learn how to care for goats beard plants.

                            

Goat’s Beard Plant in the Garden

The goat’s beard plant provides tall, fluffy, creamy white blooms in late spring to early summer, brightening shady spots. You can easily grow the goat’s beard in the garden as a background plant, as a center feature in an island garden or even as a screen to block a view.  

The goat’s beard plant is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones three to seven. The goat’s beard plant can be grown in shade in the south and full sun in more northern areas. The goat’s beard plant in gardens is adaptable to only partial shade in some areas but needs to be planted where it gets afternoon shade in hotter areas. Don’t forget to leave plenty of room when planting the goat’s beard plant. The plant can grow to six feet across. The height of goat’s beard plant is three to six feet.

 

How to Care for Goats Beard

The care of goats beard plant begins with planting in the right spot. Make sure you choose a location with the right sun exposure for your area. Also make sure the soil is well draining and it retains moisture. If your soil has too much clay or sand, add amendments before planting. Since the care for goats beard plant includes providing consistent moisture and rich soil, it is easier to plant it in the right soil from the beginning. The goats beard plant in the garden can be used as part of a white garden design or as a complimentary background for colorful spring and summer blossoms. The care for goats beard plant is simple when planted in the right place and blooms are long lasting. Try and give this friendly native a spot in your shady garden bed.