Cimicifuga racemosa (Black cohosh) — Perennial herb

Overview

Cimicifuga racemosa is a perennial herb in the genus Cimicifuga, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Cimicifuga racemosa grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland garden, shade garden and naturalizing. It is native to Eastern North America.

About

Cimicifuga racemosa is a perennial herb in the Ranunculaceae that suits shaded, woodland conditions. It prefers consistently moist, loamy, well-drained soil with an acidic to neutral pH. Native to eastern North America, it adapts to understorey or edge planting rather than exposed sunny sites. All parts are toxic if ingested, so avoid planting where children or livestock could browse.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Actaea racemosa

In the garden

Cimicifuga racemosa is a perennial herb from eastern North America belonging to the Ranunculaceae. It establishes as an understorey plant in the kind of shaded, sheltered openings you find in woodlands and is used where a moisture-retentive, cool soil environment can be maintained. Give it partial shade or full shade and a loamy, moist but well-drained soil; it prefers acidic to neutral conditions. The species is rated H5 (hardy) for the UK, so it tolerates ordinary winter conditions across most gardens, but it dislikes prolonged drought. Work organic matter into the planting area to improve moisture retention and structure, and mulch to keep roots cool through summer. It performs well in woodland or shade gardens and can be naturalised at the edge of a shrub border or beneath deciduous trees where light increases in spring. Position away from intensive sun and from areas where children or animals might ingest plant material, since the whole plant is toxic if eaten.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cimicifuga

Sunlight: Partial shade, Shade
Soil type: Loamy, Moist, Well-drained
Soil pH: Acidic to neutral
Soil moisture: Moist
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Cimicifuga racemosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial herb
Suggested uses: Woodland garden, Shade garden, Naturalizing
Native to: Eastern North America
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cimicifuga racemosa

Cultivation: Prefers humus-rich, moist soil in partial to full shade. Avoid dry or waterlogged conditions.
Pruning: Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagation: Division in spring or autumn; seed requires cold stratification.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cimicifuga racemosa?

Prefers humus-rich, moist soil in partial to full shade. Avoid dry or waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Cimicifuga racemosa?

Cimicifuga racemosa prefers partial shade and shade.

What soil does Cimicifuga racemosa need?

Cimicifuga racemosa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loamy, moist and well-drained. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.