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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.[1]
Thomas Jefferson cites Actaea racemosa in his Notes on the State of Virginia as "Black snake-root."[2]
- Peggy Cornett, n.d.
Typical Blooming Dates: June - July
Growth Type: Perennial
Color(s): White
Hardiness Zones: Zones 3 - 8
Location at Monticello: West and East Lawns
Planting Conditions: Full Shade
Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Black Cohosh.
Further Sources
References
- ^ National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, "Black Cohosh."
- ^ Notes, ed. Peden, 38.