Actaea 'Black Negligee'

Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee' is a shade-garden perennial with finely divided, dark purplish-black foliage and upright flower spikes. Its late-season flowers add a light, fragrant contrast above the dark mound, making this cultivar useful in woodland borders and other sheltered, moisture-retentive plantings. ## Landscape use and seasonal interest Use it where the fern-like leaves can contrast with broader-leaved shade plants and where the tall flower stems have room to rise above the foliage. The Morton Arboretum describes the cultivar at about 4–5 feet tall and 18–24 inches wide; its broader fall-bugbane profile gives a wider general range. The cultivar is listed as Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee'; older references may use Cimicifuga for related plants. ## Flowers and siting Creamy-white, lightly fragrant flower spikes open in late summer and continue into early fall. The Morton Arboretum describes purplish-tinged flowers for this cultivar, while the University of Washington Botanic Gardens describes cream-white blooms. Provide partial shade to shade and moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Consistent moisture helps the foliage stay attractive, especially in warmer sites. ## Maintenance In windy positions, tall flower stalks may need support. After flowering, remove spent stems for a tidy appearance or leave them in place for winter interest. Remove old foliage as the season turns. The Royal Horticultural Society warns that the plant is harmful if eaten and advises protective equipment when handling it; wear gloves when cutting it back and keep it away from children and pets. [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/227224/actaea-simplex-atropurpurea-group-black-negligee/details). The available sources give different mature width ranges, so allow generous room and use local growing conditions to guide spacing.