Black Cohosh
Actaea racemosa
Last reviewed: July 2026
Black Cohosh is a native perennial wildflower found across eastern and midwestern states, producing tall white flower spikes from June through August in shaded woodland areas.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Black cohosh is a tall native perennial that produces dramatic white bottlebrush-like flower spikes in summer. This woodland plant thrives in partial shade and forms attractive clumps with compound leaves that provide good texture in shaded garden areas.
Growing Black Cohosh
Grow Black Cohosh in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 72 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Cohosh is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can appear sparse in early spring
- Height may seem too informal for some front yards
Wildlife value
The tall white flower spikes attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. The plant provides habitat and cover for various woodland creatures.
Common questions
- Where does Black Cohosh naturally grow?
- Black Cohosh is native to 22 states across the eastern and midwestern United States, from Massachusetts south to Georgia and west to Illinois and Missouri.
- When does Black Cohosh bloom?
- Black Cohosh typically blooms from June through August, producing distinctive tall spikes of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Black Cohosh flowers?
- Black Cohosh attracts various bees and beetles, which are drawn to its summer-blooming white flower spikes.
- What growing conditions does Black Cohosh prefer?
- This woodland native thrives in partial shade to full shade with consistently moist, well-draining soil, mimicking its natural forest floor habitat.
- Is Black Cohosh HOA-friendly?
- Black Cohosh is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Black Cohosh? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz