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Actaea rubra

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Actaea rubra

Common Name: Red Baneberry

Actaea rubra, known as Red Baneberry, is a perennial herb that reaches heights of 1 to 3 feet. It has compound leaves with toothed margins and produces small, white flowers in late spring, followed by conspicuous red (or occasionally white) berries. This species thrives in moist, shaded woodlands and rich, loamy soils. While the berries are toxic if ingested, the plant is appreciated in shaded garden settings for its attractive foliage and fruit, adding visual interest to woodland gardens.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant
Type	Forb
Sun	Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Calcareous
Moisture	Mesic
Average Max Height (inches)	30
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	20
Bloom month(s)	May, June
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.

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