Species

6 other cultivars

perennial

Black Cohosh

Cimicifuga racemosa 'Black Snakeroot'

The Story

Plant Bio

Actaea racemosa (formerly Cimicifuga racemosa), commonly known as Black Cohosh, is a tall, herbaceous perennial featuring deeply divided, dark green foliage and long, terminal racemes of fragrant, creamy white flowers in late summer.

Valued for its dramatic, fragrant flower spikes that rise well above the foliage, providing vertical interest in shade or woodland gardens. It is deer and rabbit resistant.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides tall, elegant flower clusters that add vertical interest and texture to shaded gardens.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering in summer.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

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 moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas.
Water regularly during first growing season.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 4–5 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure planting in well-drained, shaded spots for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
Divide every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid excessive fertilizing ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from overwatering in winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden borderRustic shade gardenPollinator-friendly planting

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Brunnera Heuchera

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?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Black Cohosh, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Black Cohosh bloom?

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 Black Cohosh need full sun?

Black Cohosh does best in part shade.