Actaea simplex 'Chocoholic'

Sizes available: True gallon

Basics: zone 4-8, 24-36" x 18-24", part shade (with enough moisture morning light is probably fine), pale pink, fragrant, bottlebrush type flower over dark, lacy foliage late summer, flowers fade to white as they age, prefers regular moisture, but good drainage, clay, loam or silt are fine, likes a rich woodland soil

Common names: The species are known as Bugbane, Baneberry, and Snakeroot. This is a cultivar.

Synonyms: Cimicifuga 'Chocoholic'

Family: Ranunculaceae

Origin/Distribution: This is a patented plant introduced from the Netherlands and discovered by Marco van Noort in 2001. It was a seedling from Cimicifuga (now Actaea) 'Brunette'. This plant does not come true from seed and is propagated by rhizome. The species is native to China, Manchuria, Mongolia, Korea, and Japan.

Habitat: woodland edges and semi-open areas such as scrub and grassy slopes

More: A beautiful, architectural addition to a moist part sun/part shade border. Deer and rabbit resistant, slow to establish, has toxic properties. Pollinators are attracted to the blooms. The dark leaves look beautiful in dappled shady spots.

Nursery: Van Berkum

Image credit: Van Berkum Nursery, an example of the beautiful foliage