Actaea racemosa
black cohosh
ranunculaceaeWhite, bottlebrush-shaped, ill-scented
flowers; ferny leaves
4–6 ft. (3 ft.) high; 2–4 ft. wide
Part shade
Blooms June–July
Zones 3–8
pruning Allow seedheads to remain
on black cohosh for winter interest.
Cut back in early spring. If plants
receive too much sun or are allowed to
dry out, scorching of the leaves may
occur and deadleafing will be neces-
sary to improve appearance.
other maintenance This
woodland-edge native does best infertile, moist, high-organic, acidic
soil—with the emphasis on moist.
Avoid hot afternoon sun. Individual
flower spikes may need support.
Division is difficult due to the thong-
like roots, but it is rarely needed,
as clumps can remain undisturbed
forever. If desired, divide clumps
carefully in the fall. Plants are
slow growing.
related plantS Actaea pachypoda,
white baneberry, and A. rubra, red
baneberry, are North American
woodland wildflowers for the shady,
rich, moist, well-drained border. They
both stay under 3 ft. tall and have
white flowers in spring and colorful
but poisonous berries in late summer
and fall.Actaea racemosa