Red baneberry Actaea rubra
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as red baneberry is characterized by its lush, finely divided leaves, which have a feather-like appearance and are often rich in green color. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, creating an attractive backdrop for the plant's other features. Come spring and summer, red baneberry produces small, delicate white flowers arranged in dense, elongated clusters at the top of the stems. Each flower typically has numerous stamens, which give the clusters a slightly fuzzy look. After the blooming period, the flowers give way to eye-catching berries. The most striking feature of this plant is its bright red berries, which can sometimes be white. These berries are glossy and plump, with a somewhat spherical shape. They are held together in loose clusters and are particularly noticeable against the green foliage. Each berry contains several seeds, and they persist into the early autumn, providing a striking contrast in the garden as many other plants begin to fade. The stems are straight and sturdy, supporting the weight of the leaves and fruit. Despite its alluring appearance, it's important to note that the berries and other parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. The plant often grows in shady woodland areas, thriving in rich, moist soil, adding a dash of color amidst the understory of larger trees and shrubs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Red Baneberry, Western Baneberry, Snakeberry, Red Cohosh.
Common names
Actaea eburnea, Actaea alba, Actaea arguta, Actaea pachypoda.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Actaea rubra, commonly known as red baneberry, is toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of this plant can lead to poisoning. Symptoms of red baneberry poisoning may include gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Additionally, dizziness, headache, and confusion are possible neurological symptoms. In severe cases, cardiac complications and respiratory distress can occur, potentially leading to a critical condition if a significant quantity has been consumed.
To pets
Red baneberry is also toxic to pets. If pets ingest any part of Actaea rubra, they may exhibit symptoms similar to those seen in humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential heart rhythm abnormalities. Neurological signs might include tremors or seizures. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet is suspected of ingesting red baneberry, as it could be life-threatening.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Wildlife Habitat: Actaea rubra, commonly known as red baneberry, provides habitat and food for various wildlife species including birds and small mammals that eat the berries.
- Ecosystem Diversity: By growing naturally in woodland habitats, red baneberry contributes to the biodiversity and structural complexity of the ecosystem.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its bright red berries and lush foliage, red baneberry adds visual interest and beauty to natural landscapes and gardens.
- Pollinator Support: The flowers of the red baneberry attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting pollination in the ecosystem.
- Traditional Uses: Indigenous communities have historically used Actaea rubra for various non-medical purposes, such as in ceremonial practices or as a pigment source.
- Soil Fertility: When the leaves and berries decompose, they contribute organic matter to the soil, enhancing fertility and structure.
- Erosion Control: The root system of red baneberry can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in sloped or disturbed areas of the landscape.
Medical Properties- Toxicity: Actaea rubra, commonly known as red baneberry, contains compounds that can be toxic when ingested, which may have historically been used by indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes in very small doses, but such use is dangerous and not recommended.
- Warning: Modern herbalists do not recommend the use of red baneberry for medicinal purposes due to its potential for severe toxicity and the availability of safer alternatives.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Actaea rubra, commonly known as red baneberry, has been used historically as a natural dye, with its berries providing a red or purple hue to fabrics and other materials.
- In some indigenous cultures, the stems of red baneberry were used to make a weak tea for ceremonial purposes, unrelated to its medicinal properties.
- The berries of red baneberry can be crushed and mixed with other natural ingredients to create a pigment for artistic endeavors like traditional painting.
- Gardeners sometimes use red baneberry as a natural pest deterrent, as the toxic berries and foliage are avoided by many pest species.
- Red baneberry has been incorporated into some landscaping designs as a companion plant to create contrasting foliage colors and textures with other shade-tolerant plants.
- The plant has been used in traditional crafts to add ornamental elements to handmade items, since the berries and foliage are visually striking.
- Some cultures have employed red baneberry in storytelling and mythmaking, using the plant as a symbol to represent certain themes or morals.
- The crushed leaves of red baneberry have been used as a natural polish or rub to shine wooden tools and objects, due to their sap content.
- In ritualistic ceremonies, some Native American tribes would use the red baneberry plant as a decorative element to adorn altars and sacred spaces.
- The plant has occasionally been used as a barrier or boundary marker in domestic and wild gardens, as its toxic nature tends to keep people and animals at a distance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Baneberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Baneberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Danger: Actaea rubra, commonly known as Red Baneberry, bears toxic berries, naturally leading to a symbolism of danger and caution.
- Mystery: The plant has an enigmatic presence in shaded woodland areas, contributing to a symbolic meaning of mystery or the unknown.
- Protection: In some native cultures, the Red Baneberry is believed to offer spiritual protection due to its toxic properties deterring negative influences.
WaterRed baneberry prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In average conditions, this may correspond to once or twice a week, especially during dry spells or hot weather. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. A good method is to water slowly, allowing the water to seep deeply into the soil, which can take the form of approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot of soil every week, adjusted for rainfall and temperature.
LightRed Baneberry thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded areas beneath trees. It can also tolerate full shade but may produce fewer blooms. The plant should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, which can be too intense and may scorch the foliage.
TemperatureRed baneberry fares best in cooler climates and is hardy in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can suffer if temperatures exceed 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods. Ideally, keep red baneberry in an environment where temperatures range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit to promote healthy growth.
PruningPruning red baneberry is mostly for aesthetic purposes or to remove dead and damaged stems. It is best to prune them after they flower in the summer to shape the plant or control its size. Regular pruning is not necessary; however, cutting back the foliage in late winter can promote fresh growth in spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRed baneberry thrives in a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A blend of loamy garden soil, peat, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite is ideal to maintain moisture while preventing waterlogging.
RepottingRed baneberry does not require frequent repotting and should generally be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container, using a soil medium similar to its natural woodland habitat.
Humidity & MistingRed baneberry prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. It thrives in a naturally humid outdoor environment or in areas where the air is not too dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place red baneberry in shade and water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and keep the soil moist.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleActaea rubra, commonly known as red baneberry, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, cool soil in the spring. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a mature plant with compound leaves and a thick, upright stem. During the late spring to early summer, the plant produces small white or pale pink flowers in dense clusters. Following pollination, which is typically carried out by insects, the flowers develop into bright red or white berries by late summer. The berries contain seeds which are then dispersed by animals or gravity, and can remain dormant in the soil over the winter. The perennial aspect of red baneberry allows the root system to survive the cold months and re-sprout the following spring, thus continuing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The red baneberry (Actaea rubra) is most commonly propagated by seed. The best time to propagate it is in the fall after the seeds have matured and been collected. To propagate red baneberry by seed, first, clean the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining fruit pulp which can inhibit germination. Once cleaned, immediately sow the seeds directly into a prepared nursery bed or into containers with well-drained soil because red baneberry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break seed dormancy. This can be achieved naturally by the winter weather if sown outdoors. In regions with milder winters, an artificial period of cold stratification can be applied by mixing the seeds with moist sand and storing them in a refrigerator at 34 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 3 degrees Celsius) for approximately 60 to 90 days before sowing in the spring. After cold treatment, plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep and keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which is typically in the spring following the cold stratification period.
