Actaea racemosa aka Black Cohosh

Taxonomy

Actaea racemosa, also known as black cohosh, black bugbane, black snakeroot, or fairy candle, is a flowering plant from the family Ranunculaceae. It is native to eastern North America, ranging from southern Ontario to central Georgia and west to Missouri and Arkansas. This plant can be found in a variety of woodland habitats and is often found in small woodland openings. The roots and rhizomes were traditionally used in Native American medicine. Today, extracts of black cohosh are manufactured as herbal medicines and dietary supplements. However, most dietary supplements containing black cohosh are not well-studied or recommended for safe and effective use in treating menopause symptoms or any disease. On the other hand, some herbal medicinal products containing black cohosh extract hold a marketing authorization in several states of the European Union and are well-studied and recommended for safe and effective use for the relief of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and profuse sweating attacks. It is important to differentiate between the types of products containing black cohosh. Additionally, Black Baneberry, belonging to the Actaea genus and native to the Southeastern United States, is a rare houseplant that is easy to grow. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and well-draining soil. Repotting is necessary as it doubles in size, and fertilizers are not needed.

Common names

Black Cohosh, Black Snakeroot, Black Bugbane, Black Baneberry, Fairy Candle

How to care for Black Cohosh

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Black Cohosh is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Soil

Black Cohosh loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Black Cohosh requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Black Baneberry is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Black Cohosh is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Black Cohosh as it grows vertically.


More info:
Wikipedia