Also known as Carolina Tassel-Rue · False Bugbane · Tassel-Rue
Carolina bugbane (Trautvetteria caroliniensis) is a striking woodland perennial with large, attractive foliage and fluffy white flower clusters in summer.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade. Can tolerate more sun if soil remains consistently moist.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, typically thriving in USDA zones 4-8. Protect from extreme heat.
Light
25% intensity
Enrich soil with compost; minimal fertilization needed. Use balanced slow-release in spring if necessary.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Carolina bugbane prefers consistently moist soil. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
In hotter, drier weather, increase watering frequency to maintain soil moisture.
Pruning is primarily for aesthetic purposes and to remove dead or damaged foliage. After flowering, you can trim back spent flower stalks if desired.
In late fall or early spring, cut back any remaining dead foliage to the ground to encourage fresh growth.
Carolina bugbane can be propagated by seed or by division. Sow seeds in early spring, either outdoors or in a cold frame. Divisions are best carried out in early spring as new growth begins.
Separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing point, and replant immediately.
Repotting is generally not a frequent requirement for Trautvetteria caroliniensis, as it prefers to be established. If the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, repot in spring.
Use a larger pot with well-draining, rich soil. Ensure the rhizome crown is at or just below the soil surface.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Carolina Bugbane (Trautvetteria caroliniensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Trautvetteria |
| Species | Trautvetteria caroliniensis |
Similar in genus Trautvetteria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
