The Story
Plant Bio
Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Actaea racemosa or black cohosh, is a tall perennial with arching stems, deep green compound leaves, and produces tall spikes of white to cream-colored flowers that bloom in late summer and fall.
The cultivar Atropurpurea is distinguished by its striking dark purple to nearly black foliage, which provides a dramatic contrast and enhances its ornamental appeal in shaded garden settings.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Mist cuttings in a humid environment for propagation.
- Apply mulch around base to retain moisture.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
- Remove dead or damaged foliage in late fall.
Pro Tip
Plant in rich, well-drained soil with partial shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune back after flowering to promote healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Purple-leaved Black Cohosh questions
What zones can Purple-leaved Black Cohosh grow in?
Purple-leaved Black Cohosh is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Purple-leaved Black Cohosh deer resistant?
Yes — Purple-leaved Black Cohosh is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Purple-leaved Black Cohosh bloom?
Purple-leaved Black Cohosh typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Purple-leaved Black Cohosh need full sun?
Purple-leaved Black Cohosh does best in part shade.
More Cimicifuga to compare
Pink Spike Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Pink Spike'
Chocoholic Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Chocoholic'
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Snakeroot'
Bugbane Brunnette
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Brunnette'
Black Negligee Bugbane
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Negligee'
Bugbane Black Beauty
Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Beauty'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Purple-leaved Black Cohosh with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.