Description
Actaea pachypoda
CT DR P
Soil: Humus-rich, Well-drained
Light: Part to Full Shade
Moisture: Moist
Plant Height: 1 to 2 feet
Plant Width: 1 to 1.5 feet
Pests: None
Landscape Value: Great in shady borders and woodland or shade gardens.
Upright, clump-forming perennial with toothed, compound leaves and smooth stems. Short, terminal clusters of fragrant, white, lacy flowers appear in spring on greenish stalks that rise above the leaves. Flowers lack nectar but provide a critical source of early-season pollen for pollinators, especially short-tongued bees. Pea-sized white berries appear in summer and persist until frost, providing winter interest. Each berry has a distinctive dark purple spot at the tip formed by the flower’s style, hence the common name doll’s-eyes. As berries develop, flower stalks thicken and turn bright red. Mulch generously with leaves to create a humusy soil with consistent moisture. Soils should not be allowed to dry out. Self-seeding occurs in optimal growing conditions. If naturalization is desired, ripe berries can be picked and seeds immediately planted. Seeds will germinate the year after sowing. Berries are generally avoided by wildlife, but attractive to birds who are immune to their toxicity and help disperse the seeds. Tolerates clay soil, sandy soil, and black walnut.
Warning: All plant parts are extremely poisonous if ingested, but especially the berries and roots, which can cause death. Ingestion can cause severe mouth and stomach pain, salivation, headaches, diarrhea, dizziness, and hallucinations. Use caution when planting in areas where children, pets and livestock are present.
5-pint pot
Photo credits:
Native Plant Trust (photos by Donald Cameron, Arthur Haines & Donna Kausen)
