Actaea racemosa
Growing Information
• Plant Type: Perennial
• Sunlight: Partial sun, shade
• Soils: Moist, average
• Bloom Time: White spike flowers in June, July, August
• Size: 4-5 feet in height; 2-3 foot spread
Also known as black snakeroot with striking tall flower spikes and sharply divided foliage. It is an excellent choice for massing in a naturalistic garden. Flowering commences as spring wildflowers fade. Deer and rabbit resistant. Formerly Cimicifuga racemosa. Extremely rare in the wild in Massachusetts and some populations are introduced as escapes from gardens. Not found naturally on Cape Cod. Native to states west and south in the eastern U.S.
Garden Companions
Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum), Maple-leaved Viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium)
Nature Benefits
• Host plant for the Spring Azure.
• Attractive to pollinators.
Native Habitat
Occurs in forest edges and shady upland woods.