Baneberry Red Actaea Rubra is herbaceous perennial native to rocky, shady slopes and mixed forests of Eastern North America. Baneberry Red seeds can be sown in fall or winter. Also called Snakeberry, Redberry Snakeberry, Coralberry, and Black Cohosh, Actaea Rubra forms bushy clumps of finely divided, bright green foliage that usually remains attractive through most of the growing season. Red Baneberry blooms for about 3 weeks in late spring or early summer, and clusters of small fluffy white flowers on conspicuous red stems rise above the foliage. The scented flowers are attractive to some insects such as flies, bees and beetles. The clusters of pea-sized glossy scarlet berries emerge in summer and remain on the plant until frost.
Baneberry Red is an excellent choice for cool shade gardens, and Black Cohosh is a welcomed addition to shady beds and borders, woodlands, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas. In addition, Red Baneberry plant is often used as a tall groundcover when planted in groups. If not planted directly outdoors in late fall, it is recommended to cold stratify Actaea Rubra seeds prior sowing, and established Red Baneberry thrives in moist, fertile soil with lots of organic matter in partial to full shade.
WARNING: The entire plant is toxic if eaten and berries are extremely poisonous if ingested, so it has to be handled with care. Wear gloves, and clean tools after handling the plants.
PLANT PROFILE
Season: Perennial
Height: 18-30 Inches
Bloom Season: Spring/Summer
Environment: Shade/Partial Shade
Soil Type: Rich/Moist well-drained, pH 5.6-6.5
USDA Zones: 3-8
PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS
Sow Indoors: Winter (6-8 weeks before last frost)
Sow Outdoors: Fall
Seed Depth: 1/8 Inch
Germination Time: Varies
