Goat’s beard has a clump-forming growth habit with toothed, oval leaves. It produces feathery plumes of numerous tiny cream flowers in the late spring to early summer, which arch on spikes over the foliage. The species is dioecious, meaning it has distinct male and female plants. The male plants bear flower clusters that are more erect than those on female plants, and many gardeners find them more attractive. Female plants produce tiny brown seed pods. However, nurseries often don’t label goat’s beard plants as male or female, so you might have to wait until they’re in bloom to know for sure. Goat’s beard can be planted in the spring or fall, and it has a moderate growth rate. This perennial grows from underground rhizomes. Mature plants can be divided in the early spring or fall if you wish to propagate your goat’s beard. It can also multiply via seed. If you wish to prevent such spreading, deadhead the plant (remove the spent flowers).
Light
Goat’s beard can grow in full sun in the cooler parts of its growing zones, as long as it has enough moisture. In warmer locations, it should be grown in partial shade. And it especially should be protected from strong afternoon sun. Too much sun can result in leaf burn.
Soil
This plant loves loamy, organically rich soil. It can tolerate a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil pH. When planting, amend the soil with compost and peat moss. Besides increasing soil richness, this also will help the soil to retain more water.
Water
Goat’s beard prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil. Even a brief drought can damage the plant and potentially kill it. If the soil feels dry when you stick your finger in about an inch or two down, it’s time to water.
Temperature and Humidity
This perennial likes temperate conditions. And it will struggle in hot, humid weather. During heat spells, be extra diligent about providing it with adequate moisture.
Fertilizer
Because goat’s beard likes fertile soil, mix compost into the soil each spring as new growth begins. This is often all you need for healthy growth. If you have poor soil, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Goat’s Beard Varieties
There are several cultivars of Aruncus dioicus, and many of them have been bred to be more compact than the main species plant. Some examples include:
Aruncus dioicus ‘Glasnevin’: ‘Glasnevin’ is a compact cultivar that was developed in Ireland. It is slightly shorter than the main species plant, and it has even deeper green leaves. Aruncus dioicus ‘Kneifii’: Kneifii goat’s beard only reaches around 3 feet high, making it a good option for small gardens. But it still produces substantial plumes of creamy white flowers. Aruncus dioicus ‘Zweiweltenkind’: ‘Zweiweltenkind’ (also known as ‘Child of Two Worlds’) is another compact goat’s beard variety. It only reaches around 3 to 4 feet high, but it is a sturdy plant that can tolerate strong winds.
