Hillside Black Beauty Bugbane

Hillside Black Beauty bugbane is the named Cimicifuga ramosa selection described in U.S. plant patent PP9,988. Its defining feature is deeply colored foliage: the patent records dark purple leaves and stems, with white flowers that open from pink-blushed buds. ## Flowers, foliage, and size Walters Gardens describes an upright clump with nearly black purple foliage and fragrant white bottlebrush flowers, often softly flushed pink. The breeder lists a mature height of 4–7 feet and a spread of 3–4 feet; the patent reports flowering in early September through early October in Connecticut. Plant it where the tall spires can rise above lower shade plants. ## Site and care Choose part shade to full shade and soil that retains moisture. The patent notes ample soil moisture and reports winter hardiness to at least USDA zone 4; Walters Gardens lists zones 4–8 and recommends steady water in spring through autumn. Some direct light can help the leaves show their purple color. It is suited to woodland borders and grouped shade plantings. Sources: [U.S. plant patent PP9,988](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP9988P/en), [Walters Gardens cultivar profile](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=CIMHB). ## Maintenance Leave the clump in place once established. Cut back spent stems and foliage after the season, and maintain moisture through dry periods.