Blue Cohosh

Caulophyllum thalictroides

Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) is a seasonal plant with small green flowers in spring, followed by interesting fruit structures from summer through fall. They prefer shade to part sun in mesic soil where they grow up to 3 feet tall. They are a good choice for the slopes of bioretenion plantings. Companion plants include Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) and Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata).

Maintenance

No serious maintenance needs. Blue Cohosh fruit is poisonous to humans and should not be consumed.

About

Light Requirements
Part Sun, Shade
Moisture Requirements
Slopes
Soil Requirements
Loam, Organically Rich Soil
Height
Short
Spacing
1 to 2 feet
Category
Seasonal
Attracts
Bees, Birds
Illinois Native Plant Status
Illinois Native, Indiana Native
Bloom Time
April, May
Bloom Color
Green
Seasonality
Fall, Spring, Summer
Sociability
Individuals, Groups up to 5