Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Black Cohosh, is a tall, native perennial wildflower found in rich, moist woodlands, forest edges, and shaded ravines in southern Illinois and other parts of the eastern United States. It thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded native plantings.
This striking plant typically grows 3 to 7 feet tall and features large, divided, fern-like leaves. In early to mid-summer, it produces tall, slender spikes (racemes) of small, white, fragrant flowers with long stamens that give the blooms a delicate, feathery appearance. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially native bees and flies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Cimicifuga racemosa is a dramatic and ecologically valuable choice for shaded, moist landscapes. It provides architectural height, supports insect life, and adds ornamental interest with its airy blooms and bold foliage. It pairs well with companions like Wild Geranium, Woodland Phlox, and ferns in lush, layered woodland plantings. Additionally, it has a history of medicinal use, though modern use should be approached with caution.
Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Black Cohosh, is a tall, native perennial wildflower found in rich, moist woodlands, forest edges, and shaded ravines in southern Illinois and other parts of the eastern United States. It thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded native plantings.
This striking plant typically grows 3 to 7 feet tall and features large, divided, fern-like leaves. In early to mid-summer, it produces tall, slender spikes (racemes) of small, white, fragrant flowers with long stamens that give the blooms a delicate, feathery appearance. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially native bees and flies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Cimicifuga racemosa is a dramatic and ecologically valuable choice for shaded, moist landscapes. It provides architectural height, supports insect life, and adds ornamental interest with its airy blooms and bold foliage. It pairs well with companions like Wild Geranium, Woodland Phlox, and ferns in lush, layered woodland plantings. Additionally, it has a history of medicinal use, though modern use should be approached with caution.
Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as Black Cohosh, is a tall, native perennial wildflower found in rich, moist woodlands, forest edges, and shaded ravines in southern Illinois and other parts of the eastern United States. It thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded native plantings.
This striking plant typically grows 3 to 7 feet tall and features large, divided, fern-like leaves. In early to mid-summer, it produces tall, slender spikes (racemes) of small, white, fragrant flowers with long stamens that give the blooms a delicate, feathery appearance. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially native bees and flies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Cimicifuga racemosa is a dramatic and ecologically valuable choice for shaded, moist landscapes. It provides architectural height, supports insect life, and adds ornamental interest with its airy blooms and bold foliage. It pairs well with companions like Wild Geranium, Woodland Phlox, and ferns in lush, layered woodland plantings. Additionally, it has a history of medicinal use, though modern use should be approached with caution.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: mesic deciduous woodlands (where Sugar Maple is often dominant); the bases of bluffs along rivers
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic
Plant type (height): forb (3 to 7 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to medium shade
Soil: rich loamy soil with abundant organic material