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Caulophyllum thalictroides (Blue cohosh)

Caulophyllum thalictroides Photo/Illustration: Virginia Small


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Caulophyllum thalictroides kawl-oh-FIL-lum thah-lik-TROY-deez Common Name: Blue cohosh Genus: Caulophyllum
This plant's three-lobed, veined leaves are dark purple when they emerge and later turn green. Greenish brown or yellowish brown flowers appear in mid- and late spring, turning into waxy blue berries that dangle beneath the leaves.
Noteworthy characteristics: Berries split open to reveal berry-like seeds that turn from green to blue. Very slow to increase in size.
Care: Grow in moist, humus-rich, acidic soil, in part to full shade in a woodland setting.
Propagation: Divide in spring while dormant or after blooming. Sow seeds in containers in an open frame; germination is slow and erratic.
Problems: Fungal spots sometimes occur.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Slow Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Characteristics Showy Fruit
Bloom Time Late Spring; Spring
Flower Color Brown Flower; Green Flower; Yellow Flower
Style Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest
Type Perennials

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