Aruncus dioicus (Goatsbeard)

Aruncus dioicus, Goatsbeard, is one of the most impressive native perennials for shaded or woodland gardens in the Pacific Northwest. It's a large, bold plant that earns its common name from the towering plumes of creamy white flowers it produces in late spring and early summer, arching sprays that resemble an astilbe scaled up to dramatic proportions. In full bloom a mature clump easily reaches five to six feet tall, and the feathery white plumes catch even the faintest breeze, giving the back of a woodland border genuine presence.

Native across North America, Asia, and Europe in moist woodlands and stream banks, Goatsbeard thrives in the cool, moist conditions of the Oregon coast. It grows best in partial to full shade in consistently moist, humus-rich soil. Once established it's tough, long-lived, and essentially maintenance-free: no staking, no frequent dividing, and minimal pest issues.

It's a dioecious plant, meaning individual plants are either male or female. Male plants tend to have more upright, showy plumes; female plants produce slightly drooping sprays followed by attractive seedheads.