Black Cohosh Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) 'Hillside Black Beauty'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Hillside Black Beauty' is recognized for its striking dark foliage. The leaves are deeply cut, resembling fine lace, and are a rich, purplish-black color, which sets a dramatic tone in the garden. This deep hue is one of the darkest found in any plant and serves as a beautiful backdrop for other plants. In contrast, the flowers are small and creamy white, standing in fluffy spikes that rise above the foliage in late summer to early fall. These flowers have a slight fragrance and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. As the season progresses, the blooms may develop into small inedible berries. Overall, the plant has an elegant, architectural appearance that makes it a bold statement piece in any garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Bugbane, Fairy Candles, Black Cohosh, Snakeroot, Black Bugbane, Purple Bugbane
Common names
Cimicifuga simplex var. atropurpurea, Actaea matsumurae, Actaea simplex 'Hillside Black Beauty', Cimicifuga matsumurae, Cimicifuga racemosa var. cordifolia, Actaea simplex atropurpurea Group.
ToxicityTo humans
Baneberry, specifically Actaea simplex 'Hillside Black Beauty', is toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds, with the berries being particularly poisonous. If ingested, symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, stomach cramps, headache, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the toxin can lead to cardiac arrest or seizures, which may be fatal. Medical attention should be sought immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Baneberry is also toxic to pets. Like in humans, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested by animals, with the berries being especially dangerous. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tremors. Severe poisoning can lead to seizures, respiratory failure, or even death. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if a pet has ingested any part of the baneberry plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
White
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: 'Hillside Black Beauty' is prized for its striking dark purplish-black foliage and tall, white to creamy flower spikes, making it a standout in any garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in your garden and the broader ecosystem.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in partial shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens or areas with dappled sunlight.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers visual interest from spring through to fall, with foliage emerging in spring, flowering in late summer, and seed heads adding interest into fall.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Typically resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which helps to protect it and neighboring plants in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has some drought tolerance, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with less consistent rainfall.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, other than occasional watering and removal of spent flower stalks.
- Versatile Garden Use: Can be used in perennial borders, as part of a shade garden, or in naturalistic or cottage garden settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic subjects: The dramatic foliage of 'Hillside Black Beauty' provides a striking backdrop in photography, especially for highlighting lighter-colored subjects.
- Theme gardens: This plant is well-suited for Gothic or 'black' themed gardens, which feature plants with dark foliage or flowers.
- Dye production: The deep purple-black leaves may be used to produce a natural dye for fabric or artwork.
- Culinary decoration: Although not edible, the foliage can be used as a decorative accent on gourmet dishes at high-end restaurants.
- Contrast planting: Gardeners can plant 'Hillside Black Beauty' alongside chartreuse or silver-foliaged plants for a stunning contrast in the garden.
- Fall interest: The leaves of 'Hillside Black Beauty' can add to autumn displays when combined with traditional fall plants like pumpkins and chrysanthemums.
- Seasonal floristry: The plant's foliage can add unique color and texture to cut flower arrangements, especially in fall and Halloween-themed bouquets.
- Dramatic container planting: 'Hillside Black Beauty' can be used in large containers to make a statement on patios or in entryways.
- Indicator plant: Due to its sensitivity to environmental changes, it can be used by gardeners as an indicator plant for the detection of soil moisture levels and light conditions.
- Backdrops for outdoor living spaces: The dark foliage can serve as a backdrop that helps other garden elements 'pop' in outdoor seating areas or around decks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bugbane is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bugbane is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: The dark foliage of the 'Hillside Black Beauty' which is a cultivar of bugbane, can represent mystery or the unknown due to its almost black leaves and dramatic appearance.
- Power: The plant's striking presence and robust nature symbolize power and might.
- Sophistication: The elegant spires of white flowers contrasted against the dark leaves give it an air of sophistication and refined beauty.
- Protection: Historically, bugbane was believed to possess protective qualities, and its symbolism can include protection from harm or negative forces.
WaterThe Bugbane, often recognized as 'Hillside Black Beauty', prefers consistent moisture, so water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Use gentle, deep watering methods to encourage strong root growth. Typically, this might mean watering with about 1 gallon per week under normal weather conditions, but always check the soil moisture level first. During hot or windy weather, more frequent watering may be necessary. It's crucial not to overwater to prevent root rot, especially in heavy or poorly draining soils.
LightThe Bugbane prefers partial shade, especially protection from the hot afternoon sun which can scorch its foliage. An ideal spot would be an area receiving morning sun and afternoon shade. In deeper shade, it will grow but may not bloom as profusely.
TemperatureBugbane thrives best in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F but can withstand temperatures down to about -20°F for short periods. They can survive up to 90°F, but prolonged exposure to this higher temperature, particularly in combination with high humidity, can stress the plant. The ideal range ensures optimal growth and blooming.
PruningBugbane, or 'Hillside Black Beauty', should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks and dead foliage, which will help encourage new growth and improve air circulation. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can also be performed after flowering to maintain shape and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Black Cohosh 'Hillside Black Beauty' prefers a rich, moist, well-draining soil mixed with compost or leaf mold. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.
RepottingBlack Cohosh 'Hillside Black Beauty' generally does not require repotting as it is typically grown as a perennial in garden beds, where it can remain undisturbed for years.
Humidity & MistingBlack Cohosh 'Hillside Black Beauty' thrives in average to high humidity conditions, similar to its native woodland environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist, and provide mulch.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Bugbane 'Hillside Black Beauty' begins with seed germination, typically in spring, in moist, fertile soil with partial to full shade. Following germination, the plant enters its vegetative stage, where it develops a clumping habit with deeply cut, purplish-black leaves, reaching mature foliage size within a few months. During the summer to early fall, the Bugbane transitions to the flowering stage, producing tall, white to cream, bottlebrush-like, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers fade and are followed by the development of dry seed capsules that eventually release seeds in late fall to early winter before the plant goes dormant. After the first frost, the above-ground foliage dies back, and the plant relies on its underground rhizome to survive the winter. In spring, the cycle recommences as new shoots emerge, using energy stored in the rhizome to start a new growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The Actaea simplex 'Hillside Black Beauty', also commonly known as Bugbane, is best propagated by division. The ideal time to divide Bugbane plants is in the spring as new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, making sure to keep a good amount of roots intact with each section. Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root mass into smaller sections, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud. After division, immediately replant the sections at the same depth they were previously growing and water thoroughly. This will give the divisions a good start and help them establish in their new locations.
