Caulophyllum thalictroides: Blue Cohosh for Woodland Gardens

Caulophyllum thalictroides – Blue Berries on Purple-Emerging Foliage

Three-lobed veined leaves emerge dark purple, turning green. Greenish-brown or yellowish-brown flowers in mid-late spring turn into waxy blue berries dangling beneath leaves. Berries split to reveal seeds turning green to blue. Very slow to increase.

Culture

Moist, humus-rich, acidic soil, part to full shade in woodland setting. Divide in spring while dormant or after blooming. Sow seeds in containers in open frame; germination slow and erratic. Fungal spots sometimes occur.

At a Glance

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 6–12 in.
• Light: Part shade to full shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom: Spring (brown, green, yellow)
• Fruit: Blue berries
• Features: Attracts songbirds, native woodland plant