Species

Actaea racemosaBlack Cohosh

1 other cultivar

‘Brunnette Black’Bugbane 'Brunette'

perennialN. America Native

Black Cohosh

Actaea racemosa 'Cimicifuga Bugbane'

The Story

Plant Bio

This plant is known for its tall spikes of fragrant white flowers and its large, attractive foliage. It typically grows in shade to partial shade and prefers moist, rich soils.

Cimicifuga Bugbane is particularly renowned for its unique, upright flowering spikes and ability to tolerate deep shade, making it a standout choice for wooded gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Actaea racemosa features tall, elegant spikes of white flowers and attractive foliage, perfect for shaded borders.

Its roots have been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, especially for women's health.

Provides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

SpeciesActaea racemosaBlack Cohosh

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

60 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded or partially shaded spot with rich, moist soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring or fall.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 4–6 weeks.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply organic compost in spring to promote healthy growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, organic-rich soil and provide consistent moisture for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose plants to full sun, they prefer shade or partial shade
Refrain from disturbing roots during late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland border with silvery foliageMoist, shady border with fragrant flowersEclectic shade garden accent

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta Astilbe TrilliumSolomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Black Cohosh questions

What zones can Black Cohosh grow in?

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 Black Cohosh deer resistant?

Yes — Black Cohosh is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Black Cohosh bloom?

Black Cohosh typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Black Cohosh need full sun?

Black Cohosh does best in part shade.