Trautvetteria caroliniensis

Common Names

False Bugbane, Carolina Bugbane, Carolina Tassel-Rue, Tassel-Rue

Summary

False bugbane is a rhizomatous perennial in the Ranunculaceae native to North America and parts of Asia, reaching 0.5–1.5 m tall with basal and cauline leaves palmately divided into 5–11 lobes. Its panicle inflorescence bears white flowers with numerous long white stamens and a pleasant fragrance, blooming in summer (June–August). The plant favors moist, well-drained soils and grows best in shade to partial shade, commonly found in moist woodlands, stream banks, and seeps.

It is hardy in zones 5–8, easy to grow, and forms ground-cover-like colonies via rhizomes and self-seeding. Propagation occurs by division or seed, and garden use includes woodland shade plantings, borders, and pond margins, where its durable white blooms provide ornamental value.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1.5-5 feet

Spread

2-4 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil, pH 5.0–6.5.

Soil Drainage

Moist to wet soils

Soil pH

5.0-6.5

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Late Spring to Early Fall

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Normal

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division, Stem cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees