NURSERY HOURS
Wednesday – Saturday: 10-4, Sunday: 12-4
Actaea racemosa
Black Cohosh has showy white stamens, attracting many native bees, from May through
August. It is a host plant for many butterflies, including the Spring Azure, Holly Blue, and
Appalachian Azure. Given its aesthetic, it would look fantastic in a cottage garden. This
perennial prefers part to full shade, and moist well-drained soil. Black Cohosh is in the
Ranunculaceae family.
Key Info
Scientific Name: Actaea racemosa
Common Names: Black Cohosh
Family Names: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
Moisture Requirement: Moist well drained
Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Flower Color: White
Special Characteristics: Deer resistant
Additional Info
Habit: Erect
Height: 4' - 7'
Spread: 2' - 4'
Soil Conditions: Neutral to acidic, high organic matter
Leaves: Lobed, serrate, obovate, alternate, showy
Flowers (or reproductive structures: Densely clustered stamens
Fruit: Brown, green, white follicles show July to September
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-8
Pollination: Butterflies and bees
Wildlife Connections: Hose plant for Spring Azure, Holly Blue, and Appalachian Azure butterflies and larvae.
Propagation: Division, seed