Cimicifuga (Actaea) ‘Queen of Sheba’ – A Dramatic Dark-Leaved Perennial
Cimicifuga (Actaea) ‘Queen of Sheba’ is a striking perennial admired for its deep purple-black foliage and tall, elegant spires of soft pink to pale lilac flowers. Blooming in late summer to early autumn, the slender, bottlebrush-like flower spikes rise above the dark foliage, creating a dramatic contrast and strong vertical interest. The richly coloured leaves provide season-long impact, making this plant a standout feature even when not in flower.
Elegant, architectural, and full of presence, ‘Queen of Sheba’ is perfect for adding depth, contrast, and late-season colour to borders and woodland-style gardens.
Why Grow Cimicifuga ‘Queen of Sheba’?
Dark Foliage – Deep purple-black leaves provide dramatic contrast all season.
Late-Season Flowers – Tall spires of soft pink to pale lilac blooms in late summer.
Architectural Form – Strong vertical structure and bold presence.
Pollinator Friendly – Flowers attract bees and late-season insects.
Low Maintenance – Hardy, reliable, and long-lived perennial.
Height and Spread
Typically grows to 1.2–1.5m (4–5ft) in height when in flower, with a spread of 60–80cm (2–2.5ft).
Where to Site Your Cimicifuga ‘Queen of Sheba’
-
Mixed Borders: Adds height and contrast
-
Woodland Gardens: Perfect for dappled shade
-
Shaded Borders: Brings colour to low-light areas
-
Specimen Planting: Strong focal point in perennial beds
-
Naturalistic Planting: Complements grasses and shade plants
How to Grow and Care
Soil – Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil; does not tolerate drought.
Light – Partial shade to light sun; foliage colour deepens in good light.
Watering – Water regularly, especially in dry periods.
Maintenance
Pruning – Cut back dead stems in late autumn or early spring.
Mulching – Mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil fertility.
Pests & Diseases – Generally pest- and disease-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
-
Perennials: Hostas, Ferns, Astilbe
-
Grasses: Hakonechloa, Deschampsia
-
Shrubs: Hydrangea, Skimmia
-
Foliage Plants: Brunnera, Heuchera
Conclusion
Cimicifuga (Actaea) ‘Queen of Sheba’ is a bold, architectural perennial offering dramatic dark foliage and elegant late-season flowers. Perfect for borders and woodland gardens, it adds contrast, height, and refined beauty with minimal maintenance.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
