This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average to fast
• Flowering period: May to June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  When planted in a partially shaded spot with humus-rich soil, this elegant perennial will form a dense bamboo-like clump of upright stems that are clothed in lush green leaves. Then, in late spring and early summer, small, pendent, yellowish green, bell-shaped flowers emerge, and these are followed by glossy black fruit. A relatively rare (and sought after) plant, it makes a wonderful addition to the woodland garden.
  
  
• Garden care: Divide over-large clumps in spring before the new growth starts to emerge, and protect the new foliage from slugs and snails.