Cimicifuga (Actea) Queen of Sheba 2 Litre Pot

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.