White Baneberry - Actaea pachypoda

The White Baneberry, or Doll’s Eye plant, is a bold, eye-catching plant. It gets its name from its pure white berries with perfectly round, black dots in the center, like a doll’s eye. The unique plant is native to North America and found commonly in the eastern and midwest areas of the United States in woody areas. The bold, ornamental foliage fills out space in your woodland garden, while the fluffy white flowers provide spring interest before the berries grow in the summer.

Plant Details - White Baneberry

Family: Ranunculaceae

Light Requirement: Full or partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 1-3 ft

Spread: 2-3 ft

Soil Preference: Loam rich, Moist

Bloom Time: Spring

Flower Color: White

Wildlife Value: Bee pollination, Birds spread the seeds

Notable Characteristics - White Baneberry

White Baneberry is a unique perennial herb that flowers in spring, growing delicate clusters of white flowers, with hair-like petals growing from the center. In summer, the flowers die out and small white berries grow in their place. The thick, woody, red-brown stalk becomes almost bulbous towards the top, and turns a bright fuschia where the berries grow. The black-dotted berries are highly toxic to humans and most animals, causing cardiac arrest or even death when ingested. The name “Baneberry” gives a clue to its poisonous nature, as ‘bane’ refers to something that causes death, or deadly poison.

Landscape and Maintenance

Despite its toxicity to humans, White Baneberry is not poisonous to many birds, who eat the berries and distribute the seeds. The flowers give off no nectar, but are pollinated by short-tongued bees, flies, and beetles. The plant is tolerant of shade and drought resistant, making it a very resilient native. It prefers the rich, moist soils of woodland areas and shaded groves, and would be right at home in any native garden. This unique plant is a real conversation piece in any garden, as its slightly off-putting yet beautiful image is sure to get the neighbors talking – just make sure not to eat it!

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom/Foliage Color

White

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Care

Baneberry 'Doll Eye' thrives in well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Fertilize annually in spring to support growth. Protect from pests like aphids and scale by checking regularly and treating them as needed.

Plant Reproduction

Baneberry Doll Eye spreads by self-seeding and by birds eating its berries

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE