Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full shade, partial shade
Aspect:
East facing, north facing, west facing
Position in border:
Middle
Shade type:
Damp

Soil

Prefers rich soil:
Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist

The white baneberry, Actaea pachypoda, is a herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America, where it grows in woodlands. A bushy grower, it looks lovely in a shady or woodland border, with interest provided by the white spring flowers and conspicuous white summer berries.

For best results grow Actaea pachypoda in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil in partial shade or full shade. Cut it back in autumn once the foliage and berries are past their best.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sowyesyesyes
Flowersyesyesyes
Fruitsyesyesyes
Divideyesyes

Actaea and wildlife

Actaea is known for attracting bees and birds. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Actaea poisonous?

Actaea causes an upset stomach and irritates skin. Its foliage, fruit, seed capsules and seeds are toxic.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract Horses
Horses
Is known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is known to attract People
People
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Plants that go well with Actaea pachypoda
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