Sale
Sold out
Hardy perennial
Ranunculaceae
Perennials
Black cohosh
Black cohosh
Actaea racemosa: 130 cm tall and 60 cm spread, partial to full shade. White flowers in August-October. Zone 3; choose soil compatible with its moisture needs.
- Exposure
- Partial shade to shade
- Life cycle
- Hardy perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3
Discover the plant
Common nameBlack cohosh
FamilyRanunculaceae
GenusBlack Cohosh
Speciesracemose
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameBlack cohosh
With Cimicifuga racemosa, the flowerbed welcomes a plant whose flowers display white tones. The foliage presents shades of green, to be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is August-October. Its size of 130 cm by 60 cm reserves it a place in a semi-shaded bed and woodland garden, without forgetting the space for its neighbors.
The success of Actea racemosa begins with its location: partial shade to shade, in suitable soil (kept moist, Clayey). For Actea racemosa, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain fresh. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to shade) does not eliminate water requirements. A margin corresponding to its spread of 60 cm avoids having to move the clump from the first seasons. The indicated hardiness level is zone 3, to be assessed according to your garden's conditions.
When planting Actea racemosa, avoid scorching sun when the soil dries out quickly and clean dead stems in spring. Humus-rich soil that retains moisture helps acteas support their large foliage and late flower stalks. For companion planting, consider hostas, lungworts, and tiarellas in varieties with similar needs. The flowering (August-October) and spread of 60 cm will serve as benchmarks for distributing other plants around this one.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
23.62 inches
Best planting time
Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing time for the roots to settle before the severe cold.
Growing method
Actaea racemosa: Spring after the thaw, or early fall, allowing time for roots to establish before severe cold. For Actaea racemosa, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to full shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Humus-rich soil that retains moisture helps actaeas support their large foliage and late-blooming flower stalks.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Care level
Regular maintenance
Watering
For black cohosh, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface starts to dry, and adjust the amount according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to shade) does not eliminate the need for water.
Soil type
Moist, Clayey
Fertilization
Fertilizer for flowering
Moisture
Regular watering during growth
Seasonal care
Actaea racemosa: Avoid scorching sun where the soil dries quickly, and remove dead stems in spring. During its flowering period (August-October), also keep an eye out for damaged stems and neighboring plants that might overshadow the clump.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
A stable, perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; size to be adapted to the format sold and the adult plant's growth.
To try growing black cohosh in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (60 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the open ground. Plan for container protection in winter depending on your climate.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
130 cm
Width / spread
24 inches (61 cm)
Flower color
White
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Null and void
Growth rate
Slow
Growth habit
Erected
Fragrance
Not documented for this selection
Bloom period
August-October
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Companion plants to consider for black cohosh: hostas, lungworts, foamflowers. Choose varieties that tolerate partial to full shade and comparable humidity; allow each clump its adult space.
Plants to avoid
Around Actaea racemosa, especially avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Light, water, and size compatibility take precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
Where to plant Actaea racemosa?
Provide partial to full shade and suitable soil (kept moist, clayey). Humus-rich soil that retains moisture helps acteas support their large foliage and late flower stalks.
What place should be reserved for Actaea racemosa?
Expect a height of around 130 cm and a width of 60 cm at maturity. Approximately 60 cm between centers, to be adjusted according to the actual clump development. This size is suitable for use in semi-shaded beds and woodland gardens.
When does black cohosh bloom?
The period indicated is August-October. The flower color is white. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, the season, and the plant's establishment.
How to water and care for Actaea racemosa?
For Actaea racemosa, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (partial shade to shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Avoid scorching sun when the soil dries out quickly and remove dead stems in spring.
Can Actaea racemosa be grown in pots?
To try growing Actaea racemosa in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (60 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out more quickly than in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
For your perennials and grasses
The right extras.Right here.
Flower and Bloom Fertilizer
Shop the collection
Hand Tools
Shop the collection
