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Black cohosh

How to identify Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

Black cohosh, also known as Black bugbane, Fairy candles, Bugbane

Black cohosh is an herbaceous perennial with a sturdy, rhizomatous growth habit that can reach towering heights of over 6 feet (183 cm). This plant flourishes with long, arching racemes of diminutive white flowers which contribute to its striking appearance when in bloom. The foliage is characteristically divided into compound leaves with irregularly toothed leaflets, lending a lush, feathery texture. It thrives in the dappled sunlight of woodland environments, requiring moist but well-drained soil and is sensitive to wind due to its statuesque profile.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Black cohosh

1

Tripinnately compound basal leaves up to 3 feet (90 cm) long with 2-5 lobed leaflets.

2

Sturdy, erect stem, green to purplish, 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall, minimal branching.

3

Towering height exceeding 6 feet (183 cm) with long, arching racemes of diminutive white flowers.

4

Unpleasant-scented petal-less white flowers on 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) long racemes from May to August.

5

Small, dry seed pods in racemose clusters, not exceeding 2 inches (5 cm) in length, with numerous seeds.

Black cohoshBlack cohoshBlack cohoshBlack cohoshBlack cohosh

Detailed Traits of Black cohosh

Leaf Features

Black cohosh has large basal leaves measuring up to 3 feet (90 cm) long and broad. These leaves are tripinnately compound, forming repeated sets of smaller leaflets. The terminal leaflet is typically 3-lobed. Leaflets are obovate to ovate-lanceolate, each 2-5 lobed, with margins that are toothed or incised. This intricate leaf structure is a key identifying feature of black cohosh.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

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Flower Features

Black cohosh features hundreds of tiny, fluffy-looking creamy white flowers on 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) long racemes. The flowers are petal-less, consisting of tight clusters of numerous stamens surrounding a white stigma. They emit an unpleasant aroma and bloom from May to August.

Black cohosh Flower image
Inflorescence Type

Raceme

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Stem Features

The stem of black cohosh is sturdy and erect, ranging in color from green to purplish. It typically measures around 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) in height and can be up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in thickness. The stem is smooth and slightly ridged, providing structural support for the plant's tall, slender inflorescence. It features a minimal branching pattern, with occasional lateral stems that emerge near the base. The purplish hue may intensify with exposure to sunlight.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of black cohosh is characterized by small, dry seed pods which are most prominently present from July to September. These fruits typically take on an elongated and slight cylindrical shape. Upon maturity, they exhibit a subtle brownish tone, blending with the plant's foliage. Each pod houses numerous minute seeds, which adhere to a firm texture. The fruits are borne in racemose clusters, hence appearing in grouped formations that can aid in their identification. Measurement-wise, the size of the pods remains modest, generally not exceeding 2 inches (5 cm) in length.

Fruit Type

Capsule

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Key Facts About Black cohosh

Attributes of Black cohosh
Lifespan
Perennial
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
White
Fruit Color
Brown
Green
Copper
White
Stem Color
Green
Purple
Leaf type
Deciduous
The Toxicity of Black cohosh
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Scientific Classification of Black cohosh

Family
Buttercup
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Species
Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa)
Learn More About the Black cohosh

Distribution Map of Black cohosh

Black cohosh, originally native to North America's eastern forests, thrives in temperate woodlands and has been introduced to similar habitats in Europe. Its range extends from the eastern region of its native continent, adapting well to some northern parts of Europe where it is cultivated, establishing it as a species with a transatlantic presence.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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