American Spikenard has large compound leaves and upright clusters of greenish-white summer flowers. Later in the season, it produces dark purple berries that persist into fall and provide food for birds. It is clump-forming and slow to establish, it prefers part to full shade and rich, moist soils. Its stately height, textured foliage, and architectural flower clusters make it ideal for shady borders, woodland gardens, or naturalized plantings.