A small genus of two species, one D. cannabina from Europe and Asia, the other D. glomerata from western areas of North America. Large herbaceous perennials, with divided leaves. Flowers, male and female on separate plants. Typically small, in large quantities but in clusters or hanging down, like a tassel, providing great effect.
The flower structure, naughty bits dangling when ripe, and absence of nectaries suggest these are wind-pollinated, though nobody seems to know for certain. Attractive and interesting though it is, and a talking point because the resemblance of its leaves to those of hemp, it probably plays no significant role for wildlife in the garden, other than as bushy cover for invertebrates.