Growing Actaea: Woodland Perennial with Red Berries

Growing Actaea

Use in woodland gardens, perennial borders, edge of shade garden, or wildflower garden. Clump-forming perennial with very small white flowers in terminal racemes 2–3 inches long, blooming late spring to early summer. Spikes of shiny red berries follow in late summer to early fall; berries are poisonous. Height 18–30 inches; width 1–3 feet. Leaves are pinnately compound, resembling Astilbe foliage. Prefers partial to full shade. Cool, evenly moist, woodsy soil; pH slightly acid to neutral. Space 12–18 inches apart. Seldom needs fertilizing; just add an inch of leaf mold or compost to the area.