Aruncus dioicus var. dioicus

Habitat: Mesic to dry-mesic, usually rich upland forests, clearings, and shaded road banks. Frequent in the mountains and piedmont; rare in the coastal Plain.

Wildlife value: Larval host to Dusky Azure (Celastrina nigra) the caterpillars of which will appear from April to May. Adult Dusky Azure butterflies feed on flower nectar from plants like wild geranium. It is the host plant for the Dusky Azure butterfly. Attracts birds and other pollinators.

Notes: Prune the plant back after it flowers to promote bushy growth.  Propagate this plant by seed or divide in the early spring leaving at least one eye per cut section.  .