If you desire a hardy, easy-to-grow border plant, that produces tall spikes of fragrant, cream-to-pink flowers, in late summer and autumn, when most other garden flowers are finished, then look no further. Actaea 'Pink Spike' is a recently introduced border plant that is slightly smaller than its near relations. It enjoys a position in part- or dappled shade; in fact, the pink colouring of the flowers is very special, as you don't get many shade-loving pink flowers!

In addition to its blooms, this Actaea is noted for its ornamental, divided, bronze-purple foliage, which is at its darkest soon after opening, in spring. This leaf-colouring is beneficial too, as, if you do have to grow Actaea simplex 'Pink Spike' in a sunnier spot, it will perform better than the green-leaved forms of Actaea.

For this plant to look its best, moisture-retentive soil is necessary. No staking is required. Grow it with Heucheras, Rodgersia, Anemones, Hardy Fuchsias, glossier grasses (such as Hakonechloa), and ferns (such as Dryopteris, Polystichum and Polypodium).

NOTE: Most Actaeas are harmful if eaten, and can trigger skin irritations.