Caulophyllum thalictroides / Blue Cohosh

Blue cohosh is a perennial herb found in rich, moist forests. It epitomizes the combination of aerial grace and belowground tenacity that characterizes much of the old growth forest flora. Of especial visual interest are its bright cerulean fruits borne in panicles over its symmetrically whorled compound leaves.

In landscaping, blue cohosh is an attractive foliage plant and can be planted in masses in the forest garden understory. It spreads slowly by rhizomes to form colonies.

Form: Medium-sized herb

Height: 1.5′ – 3′

Blooms: May

Siting: In part shade to shade, mesic to moist soils

Deer Resistance: Medium. Plant is sometimes browsed while in fruit and deer may be important dispersal agents.

Provenance: NJ/PA