Position – Full or partial shade
Soil – Moist, well-drained
Flowering Period –August to October
Hardiness – Fully hardy
Actaea (Baneberry) are herbaceous perennials, originating from Europe to Western Asia, covered in clusters of strong scented blooms that coincide with a distinct and unique appearance. They bloom in the late summer and continue until late autumn. After flowering, Actaea leave behind a combination of lime green seed pods set upon a skeletal frame. Actaea will grow to an approximate height of around 1.2m (4’) and a spread of 60cm (2’). Actaea look fantastic set upon a sloped bank, a wildlife garden or within a wall side border. Please take care when handling Actaea, as the seed pods are highly toxic if ingested into your system.
Actaea are best planted in moist, well-drained soil within loam and clay within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH level. Amend the planting area with plenty of organic matter and mix thoroughly to help with drainage whilst improving overall growing conditions. Ensure the hole is deep and wide enough to accommodate the size of your plant, watering thoroughly to settle in place. Actaea are best positioned in full sun or part shade and are a great addition under a conifer, if watered regularly in drier weather conditions.
Water Actaea well during periods of dry weather and regularly throughout active growth, taking care not to overwater. Enrich your soil with plenty of organic matter whilst in flower as this will promote a profuse flurry of blooms. Due to their long and spiny stems, it is recommended that Actaea are supported with ring stakes before the flowering period. Once the flowering season is over, cut back your plant to encourage continued health and growth.
Propagation can take place in the spring time and can be accomplished by division. Alternatively, you can propagate by seed sown in pots during the autumnal months.
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