Black Cohosh
Common Name: Black Cohosh, Snakeroot[1]
Scientific Name: Cimicifuga racemosa
Description: Hardy, herbaceous North American perennial; tall spires of snow-white blossoms in early summer tower above the rich, large, dark green foliage
Size: Flower stalks grow 5 to 6 feet high; 3 feet wide
Cultural Information: Prefers shade but tolerates some sun; rich, woodsy, well-prepared garden loam and mulch; plant crowns just below soil surface
USDA Zones: 3 through 9
Historical Notes: Black cohosh, or snakeroot, has been grown in American gardens since the late 18th century. Thomas Lamboll sent snakeroot to Philadelphia nurseryman and plant explorer William Bartram during the late 1700s, and one is believed to be this species. Black cohosh is a long-lived perennial that will slowly increase in size for many years and not require dividing. The lacy foliage forms an attractive mound in the flower border or woodland garden. Historically, black cohosh was used for treating a variety of disorders such as malaria, rheumatism, and malaise.[2]
Thomas Jefferson cites Actaea racemosa in his Notes on the State of Virginia as "Black snake-root."[3]
Footnotes
- ↑ This article is based on a Center for Historic Plants Information Sheet.
- ↑ Office of Dietary Supplements,"Black Cohosh," National Institute of Health, http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/BlackCohosh.asp.
- ↑ Peden, Notes, 38.
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