Also known as Baneberry · 602 saves
Actaea
Actaea, the genus most gardeners know as baneberry. We track 17 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 15 most-saved Actaea varieties
Browse all 17 Actaea varieties →
2 species of Actaea
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Actaea in Sow
Save the Actaea you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Actaea
Whats common across all Actaea varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 17 most-grown of them.
The Actaea year
- MulchMarch and April88% of varieties
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch to retain essential moisture.
- Spring CleanupFebruary76% of varieties
Cut old stems and foliage back to the ground in late winter.
- DivideMarch and September65% of varieties
Divide large clumps every 5+ years in early spring or fall.
- StakeMay–July53% of varieties
Stake tall flower spikes if planted in exposed or windy locations
- PlantMarch, April, September and October47% of varieties
Plant in spring or early fall in rich, moist, shaded soil.
- FertilizeMarch47% of varieties
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer or compost in early spring.
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Water consistently during dry periods 💧
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid disturbing roots during the growing season
- Avoid full sun exposure ☀️
- Do not let soil dry out completely
What goes wrong with Actaea
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves, slime trails | Handpick or set slug traps, use iron phosphate bait |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and stippled leaves | Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | No treatment needed |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply sulfur fungicide |
| Root Rot | Wilting, brown roots | Ensure well-draining soil, reduce watering |
Making more Actaea
Division
- Dig up clump in early spring or fall
- Divide into smaller sections with roots intact
- Plant immediately in prepared soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
Seed
- Collect seeds after flowering in late summer.
- Sow seeds in moist seed-starting mix in fall.
- Cover lightly with soil and keep moist.
- Maintain in cool, shaded location for stratification.
- Transplant seedlings once established.
Actaea questions
How many types of Actaea are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 17 distinct Actaea varieties. The most popular — ranked by 602 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Actaea grow in?
Across its varieties, Actaea covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Actaea bloom?
Most Actaea varieties bloom in late summer, late summer to early fall, late summer to early fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Actaea should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.