Black Cohosh

Actaea racemosa

Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is a seasonal plant with large panicles of white flowers from early to mid-summer. They prefer mesic soil in part sun to shade where they can grow up to 7 feet tall. They are a good choice for shaded slopes. Companion plants include Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) and Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum).

Maintenance

Flower stalks may need staking and the plant can be difficult to establish.

About

Light Requirements
Part Sun, Shade
Moisture Requirements
Banks, Slopes
Soil Requirements
Clay, Loam
Height
Medium, Tall
Spacing
2 to 4 feet
Category
Seasonal
Attracts
Bees, Butterflies
Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes
Bloom Time
June, July
Bloom Color
White
Seasonality
Summer
Sociability
Individuals, Groups up to 5