This is a low mounding semi-evergreen forb with handsome foliage. The leaves have 5 to 9 sharp lobes and are velvety with plant hair. In September-October it bears a flower stalk that has off-white spike-like clusters of tiny bell-like flowers. It thrives in moist rich woods in light full shade to part sun. It tolerates heat, drought, and rocky soil. Its native range is from New York down to north Georgia to Arkansas & Missouri. Hummingbirds and tiny pollinating insects seek nectar from the tiny flowers in the clusters. It is deer resistant and tolerant of juglone, the toxic chemical exuded from Black Walnut roots. This mother species is sold by some native plant nurseries as Blue Moon Native Plant Nursery in southern New Jersey. Otherwise, one can buy some cultivars of this species at conventional garden centers that offer a diverse choice of perennials. 'Autumn Bride' is the most commonly sold cultivar. Most of the gardening public does not know this nice plant, so I only see its cultivars occasionally, and I have only seen the straight species at Longwood Gardens in their native woods area.

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