Goat's beard
Aruncus vulgaris

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

A perennial plant. It grows 1.2-1.8 m high and 90-120 cm wide. The leaves are compound and light green. The flowers are tiny and in long plumes. Male and female flowers are carried on separate plants. The male flowers are white and female flowers are cream.

There are 2 or 3 species of Aruncus.

Where it is found

It is a temperate climate plant. It is best in a moist location in light shade. It is resistant to frost. It is affected by drought. It suits hardiness zones 3-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Canada, Caucasus, Europe (country/location of origin), Georgia, India, Italy, Mediterranean, North America, Tasmania, USA

How it is used for food

The young leaves, buds and stems are eaten as a potherb. Caution: The leaves are poisonous.

Edible parts

Leaves, sprouts, caution, stem, flowers

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or by division.

Its other names

Local names

Mek'endzali

Synonyms

Spiraea aruncus Hook.f. in part; Actaea dioica Walter; Aruncus dioicus (Walter) Fernald;