How to identify Baneberries (Actaea)
Baneberries, also known as Cohoshes, Snakeberries
Baneberries sprouts from a robust rhizome each spring, giving rise to one or more branching stems which can reach several feet in height. These stems boast distinctive foliage – either trios of branching leaves towards their summit or complex, compound leaves. Near their apex, each stem culminates in an unbranched spire of inconspicuous white flowers. Following the blooms, baneberries bears eye-catching fruit resembling tiny, spherical beads, which may vary in hue from snowy white to deep purplish-black, each featuring a singular black mark and supported on vividly colored, often red, stalks.
Lifespan: Perennial
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Pinnately divided leaves with toothed leaflets, reaching 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length.
Terminal raceme of small, creamy white flowers measuring 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in diameter.
Multicolored berries - white, red, or purplish-black - with a distinct black dot, supported on red stalks.
Feathery appearance of flower clusters due to numerous stamens surrounding central pistil.
Distinctive fruit texture - smooth and often spherical in shape, standing out against red stalks.
The leaves of baneberries are deep green, spreading and pinnately divided with numerous toothed leaflets. Each leaflet exhibits a finely serrated edge and may vary in size, typically reaching lengths of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm). The underside of the leaf usually presents a lighter green hue compared to the top, providing a subtle color contrast. The leaves are generally smooth in texture with a prominent central vein and well-defined branching veins.
The flowers of baneberries are small and creamy white, arranged in a terminal, erect raceme. They measure about 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in diameter. The numerous stamens surround the central pistil, giving the flower clusters a feathery and fluffy appearance. Blooming from late spring to early summer, these flowers emit a mild fragrance, adding to their allure. Their delicate, airy look is a key feature in identifying this species during its blooming period.
The fruit of baneberries is notable for its striking color variations, presenting as white, red, or purplish-black. These glossy berries are typically adorned with a conspicuous black dot, giving them a unique appearance. They often sit gracefully on thick, red stalks that contrast vividly with the berry colors. The texture of the berries appears smooth and they may possess a somewhat spherical shape. These features are particularly distinct and serve as an important identification trait for the fruit of baneberries.
Scan QR code to download
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Identify a Plant Online
Scientific Classification of Baneberries
