Perfect for shade gardens, Actaea pachypoda (White Baneberry) is an herbaceous perennial forming clumps of finely divided, bright green foliage, enhanced by dense, globular clusters of small fluffy white flowers in late spring and early summer. Borne on conspicuous red stems which rise above the foliage, they give way to pea-sized white berries in summer. Each berry has a small purple spot (doll's eyes). Highly toxic, they are ignored by wildlife and persist until frost, providing ornamental interest over a long season.
- Typically grows up to 18-30 in. tall (45-75 cm) and 24-36 in. wide (60-89 cm). Self-seeding may occur where the berries fall to the ground.
- Thrives in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Moist, moderately fertile soil, enriched with organic matter is preferred. Don't let the soil dry out.
- Trouble-free and easy care, Baneberry is a welcomed addition to beds, borders, woodlands, cottage gardens, naturalized areas.
- Cut back after fruiting. Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or by division in early spring
- The berries are extremely poisonous if eaten.
- Native to Eastern North America
