White baneberry - Actaea pachypoda (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

White baneberry

Also known as: White cohosh, Necklace weed, White beads

White baneberry (Actaea pachypoda) is a herbaceous perennial that can grow to be 30 to 61 cm tall. It blooms from spring to summer and has fragrant clusters of tiny white flowers. White baneberry blossoms smell like roses. Its berries and leaves are poisonous. This species grows best in partial shade.

Scientific classification

Species

White baneberry (Actaea pachypoda)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, White, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of White baneberry

Culture

Garden Use

White baneberry is occasionally grown in shade and forest gardens where it is used as a specimen plant. The spreading shrub is resistant to deer and provides year-round garden interest. It produces clusters of blooms in the spring, and berries in the summer that last until winter. The clusters of blossoms are also used as cut flowers.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

White baneberry is incredibly toxic to humans, causing severe symptoms like burning mouth, severe cramps, and hallucinations, especially if berries are ingested. Children are most at risk. White baneberry also poses moderate toxicity for cats and dogs; ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and severe symptoms like seizures in dogs. Immediate veterinary care is essential for pets displaying symptoms.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify White baneberry

Compound leaves with toothed leaflets in pairs of two or three.

Distinctive white berries with a dark spot resembling 'doll's eyes'.

Showy red stems after blooming, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm).

Clusters of small white flowers in short cylindrical arrangements.

Toxicity throughout plant parts, especially in roots and berries.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for White baneberry

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: White baneberry prefers damp soil and high humidity, thriving in conditions similar to its native deciduous woodlands. Watering twice a week is optimal, with increased moisture needed during active growth phases. Typically grown outdoors, white baneberry benefits from natural rainfall and the shelter of larger plants.

Fertilize: Fertilize white baneberry with a balanced 10-10-10 NPK formula in early spring and midsummer, following package instructions. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage. Reduce fertilization in fall for dormancy preparation, and always water white baneberry thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn.

Pruning: White baneberry features white berries and appealing foliage. Prune in early spring to encourage growth, removing dead stems and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning to maintain flowering. Use clean, sharp tools for effective and minimal damage.

Propagation: The best time to propagate white baneberry is Spring, using seed sowing. It poses moderate difficulty, with success indicated by leaf sprouting and stem growth. To improve results, ensure the soil is well-draining and maintains adequate moisture.

Repotting: Repot white baneberry every 2-3 years in early spring to support growth, using a slightly larger container to ensure root comfort. After repotting, provide light shade and maintain moist soil for recovery, promoting white baneberry's overall health and vitality.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free