Blue Cohosh - Caulophyllum thalictroides

The Blue Cohosh is a perennial herb with blue-green foliage, whose small flowers dry out to become pea-sized, blue, edible berries. It thrives in deciduous woodlands, specifically in moist coves and hillsides. The flowers and eventual berries are often overshadowed by the lush, plentiful foliage which can fill out any area in your woodland garden. As a slow-growing perennial it takes time to establish itself in any habitat, but then enjoys a long life in its quiet, undisturbed patch of earth.

Plant Details - Blue Cohosh

Family: Berberidaceae

Light Requirement: Shade, Partial sun

Water Needs: Moderate - Semi heavy

Height: 1-2 ft

Spread: 6 in-1 ft

Growth Rate: Slow

Soil Preference: Moist, Fertile, Loamy

Bloom Time: Spring

Flower Color: Dark purple

Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators, Mice and Caterpillars

Notable Characteristics - Blue Cohosh

Blue Cohosh can be identified mainly by its stalks and leaves. A thin, single stalk grows erect from the ground, with equally thin branches growing off of it and branching into three leaves. The leaves are varying in size, with round edges that come to a point at the end. They are thin and silky, and their blue-green color is particularly eye-catching in large patches. The six petals of the flower are a dark purple-brown with yellow stamens that bloom in the spring, but dry out and curl into themselves before falling off in the summer. Bright blue berries grow in their place which add a beautiful, bold pop of color to the lush green leaves. This plant is an important North American native because it is fully edible. The seeds can be a substitute for coffee, the root is commonly used to treat pain from menstruation, or even return the reproductive cycle back to a normal pattern. You can make the berries into a tincture to treat arthritis or other body aches, and combine it with ginger, turmeric or solomon's seal to help your digestion.

Landscape and Maintenance

The Blue Cohosh is a resilient and long lived plant, which thrives among the oaks and maples in hardwood forests of the eastern United States. It grows especially well among other natives making it a great addition to your native garden! The flowers have nectar and pollen which are attractive to bees and other insects, while caterpillars love to make their homes on its lush foliage. Mice often enjoy eating the berries, and help to distribute its seeds through animal dispersal. The small flowers and berries often go unnoticed among its full leaves, but this steadfast plant is a beautiful, humble addition to any woodland area.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom/Foliage Color

Yellow

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Care

Blue Cohosh grows best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with consistent moisture. Use mulch to retain dirt and moisture and protect roots. Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Trim dead foliage to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.

Plant Reproduction

Blue Cohosh spreads by rhizomes

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