Actaea pachypoda, commonly known as Doll’s Eyes, is a native perennial found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded areas across Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils and dappled sunlight to moderate shade.
This plant features large, deeply lobed leaves and produces small, white flowers arranged in tall, showy clusters in late spring to early summer. After blooming, it develops striking, white berries with a black dot, resembling doll's eyes, which give the plant its common name. While the berries are highly toxic if consumed, they are visually striking and attract wildlife, such as birds, that help disperse the seeds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Actaea pachypoda is a fascinating addition to woodland gardens and shaded landscapes, offering unique seasonal interest and supporting wildlife, while requiring caution due to the toxic berries.
Actaea pachypoda, commonly known as Doll’s Eyes, is a native perennial found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded areas across Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils and dappled sunlight to moderate shade.
This plant features large, deeply lobed leaves and produces small, white flowers arranged in tall, showy clusters in late spring to early summer. After blooming, it develops striking, white berries with a black dot, resembling doll's eyes, which give the plant its common name. While the berries are highly toxic if consumed, they are visually striking and attract wildlife, such as birds, that help disperse the seeds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Actaea pachypoda is a fascinating addition to woodland gardens and shaded landscapes, offering unique seasonal interest and supporting wildlife, while requiring caution due to the toxic berries.
Bloom: spring
Habitats: ravines; rich deciduous woods; shaded seeps; the bases of bluffs; thinly wooded bluffs
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 3 feet)
Requirements: dappled sunlight to moderate shade
Soil: fertile loamy soil with abundant organic matter
