Fairy Hair Goatsbeard

Fairy Hair Goatsbeard (Aruncus 'Fairy Hair')

Fairy Hair Goatsbeard is a compact perennial with extremely fine, fern-like foliage topped by airy, creamy white plumes in late spring to early summer. Its delicate texture and neat mound thrive in part shade with steady moisture, brightening woodland edges, shade borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Ultra-fine leaflets create a soft, lacy effect seldom seen in shade perennials, while petite, feathery blooms rise just above the foliage for an elegant, cloud-like display.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal in warm climates.
• Soil: Rich, well drained, humus-heavy soil that retains consistent moisture.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially through bud set and bloom; avoid prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8.
• Mature Size: 1 to 1.5 ft tall and 1 to 2 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Fine foliage and airy plumes create a luminous accent in shaded beds.
• Woodland Borders: Blends naturally with hostas, ferns, and heucheras.
• Mixed Shade Beds: Adds delicate texture among bold-leaved companions.
• Mass Planting: Forms soft, cohesive drifts along paths and edges.
• Containers: Performs in pots with reliable moisture and drainage.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly to maintain a consistently moist root zone.
• Pruning: Shear spent plumes after bloom; cut back foliage in late fall or early spring.
• Fertilizing: Top-dress with compost in spring or apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
• Notes: Provide afternoon shade in hot summers to prevent stress and leaf scorch.

Why Choose Fairy Hair Goatsbeard?

• Refined Texture: Lacy foliage delivers a unique, high-end look in shade.
• Compact Habit: Fits smaller gardens and tight borders without crowding.
• Reliable Bloomer: Consistent early summer display with steady moisture.
• Deer Resistant: Foliage is generally avoided by deer.
• Design Versatility: Softens hard lines and pairs easily with classic shade plants.

Plant in part shade with rich, moisture-retentive soil and maintain even watering for the fullest plumes and freshest foliage.