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Aruncus is a genus of herbaceous plants in the Rosaceae. Botanical opinion of the number of species differs, with from one to four species accepted.

Aruncus dioicus flowers

• Aruncus dioicus (Goatsbeard) is native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere, occurring throughout the cooler parts of Europe, Asia and North America. In the broad sense, this is the only species in the genus, with the species below treated as synonyms or varieties of it by some botanists.

• Aruncus aethusifolius (Dwarf Goatsbeard or Korean Goatsbeard) has a restricted range, limited to Korea in eastern Asia.

• Aruncus gombalanus (Yunnan Goatsbeard) occurs in the mountains of northwest Yunnan and adjacent Tibet.

• Aruncus sylvester (Asian Goatsbeard) covers the widespread Asian forms of A. dioicus.

The genus was formerly treated as part of the related genus Spiraea.

Cultivation

Goatsbeard does well in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 4-9 in almost any soil, in sun, or light shade. Set plants approximately 18 - 24 inches apart. To get new plants, divide clumps in spring or fall; otherwise clumps can remain undisturbed indefinitely.

Medical uses:^{[citation needed]} A poultice from the root is applied to bee stings. A tea made from the roots is used to allay bleeding after child birth, to reduce profuse urination and to treat stomach pains, diarrhea, gonorrhea, fevers and internal bleeding. Use the root tea externally to bathe swollen feet and rheumatic joints. A salve made from the root ashes can be rubbed onto sores.

References

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