Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh)

A tall summer beauty for the native woodland garden. Tall airy white panicles emerge far above the foliage in June to July and look like wands dancing in the breeze. The uniquely divided foliage forms a lovely clump that tends to hold up all season. Plant in an area protected from high winds with rich, moisture-retentive soil that will not dry out. Also known as Black Bugbane, Snakeroot or Black Cohosh, this Eastern United States native has been used for centuries by Native Americans for the medicinal properties of its rhizomatous roots. Synonymous with and formerly known as Cimicifuga racemosa.

  • Container Size: 
  • USDA Zone: 3-8
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Spread: 2-4 feet
  • Sun Exposure: part to full shade
  • Soil Moisture: average
  • Bloom Time: summer
  • Bloom Color: white
  • Foliage Color: green
  • US Native: yes
  • Wildlife Benefit:
  • Notes: fragrant, rabbit tolerant
  • Image Credit: